When a Broadway-obsessed teen has a debilitating panic attack on stage, she teams up with her popular rival to conquer her anxiety and seize the spotlight at her high school's talent show.

SYNOPSIS:

Zoe Olzanski is a spirited and flamboyant teenage girl who holds a single aspiration close to her heart: to shine as a star, specifically on Broadway. Her journey takes a fortunate turn as she secures a co-leading role in her school's rendition of Chicago. However, Zoe's nerves outweigh her excitement, setting the stage for her inner turmoil. Contrasting her vivacious and well-liked co-star, Katie Kashack, Zoe grapples with self-doubt. Moments before stepping into the limelight, anxiety overtakes her, resulting in a hasty trip to the restroom and an unfortunate bout of nervous vomiting. Returning just in time for the performance, she's assisted onto the stage by her theater-loving friend, Noah. However, instead of a triumphant debut, Zoe suffers a panic attack and, regrettably, another episode of vomiting, this time in front of the entire school and onto Katie.

This ordeal is undeniably a nightmarish experience for any typical teenager. Despite the support from her friends, Izzy and Noah, as well as her imaginative companions represented by posters from "The Phantom of the Opera" and "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," Zoe finds herself sinking into depression. Blaming her turmoil on “the impending doom of a desolate planet, the rising specter of global fascism, weekly school shooting drills, state discrimination against queer students, a pandemic-destroyed childhood, and a decaying Broadway!”, she resists seeking help. Nevertheless, the school intervenes, leading her into group therapy at her school.

Following an awkward encounter with Katie at a house party, Zoe embarks on her initial group therapy session, only to discover that Katie is also a participant. Katie pleads with Zoe to safeguard this shared secret. Zoe agrees. A diabolical twist occurs when the two are signed up for the school's talent show as a prank. Seated in the principal's office, Zoe contemplates her options and decides to confront her stage fright head-on. Surprisingly, Katie, feeling partially responsible, offers to aid Zoe in overcoming her fear. Though hesitant, Zoe agrees.

Katie introduces Zoe to the world of open-mic stand-up comedy by signing her up in a performance. Despite initial reluctance, Zoe is persuaded by Katie's straightforward encouragement: "You can do it. All you have to do is do it." Nervousness strikes again, but Katie rushes to her side on stage, guiding her through the routine. This shared experience forms the foundation of a unique friendship as they spend more time together, each uncovering aspects of their personalities through new encounters.

As their connection deepens, unspoken romantic emotions begin to stir within both Zoe and Katie, hidden by their mutual anxieties. Heather, one of Katie's friends and a top-pop in their high school, becomes envious of their growing bond and exhibits clingy behavior toward Katie. Katie leaves Heather's place to rendezvous with Zoe and Noah at a college production of Rocky Horror. Before leaving, Heather implores Katie to attend her Y2K party the following night. Katie agrees. Following a delightfully entertaining Rocky Horror performance, Katie invites Zoe to the party as well. Zoe accepts the invitation, recognizing the moment to reveal her true feelings to Katie.

The Y2K party is a dazzling affair, with attendees flaunting Y2K-era fashion, Zoe included. Zoe confesses her admiration for Katie, calling her “perfect”, a declaration that triggers an unexpected reaction. Katie retreats to the basement in frustration, divulging her weariness of people presuming her life is faultless. Katie contends that Zoe, of all people, should know this, especially considering Zoe's understanding of Katie's battles with anxiety and depression. Zoe counters by asserting that her affection for Katie isn't rooted in popularity or appearance, but rather in the fact that she “stuck with me. After everything. After I embarrassed you. After I puked on you. You didn't run away. You stayed and helped.” Their evolving connection culminates in them finally kissing, caught on video and swiftly shared across social media.

The partygoers swarm to the basement, mockingly demanding an encore kiss. Overwhelmed, Katie succumbs to her own panic attack, leaving with Heather. Zoe escapes the party with Izzy and Noah. In the aftermath, rumors and insinuations ignite across social platforms. The next week, Katie withdraws from school and severs communication with everyone. Concerned for her friend, Heather seeks Zoe's help in lifting Katie's spirits. Though skeptical of Heather's intentions, Zoe agrees, and they venture to Katie's residence. With no response, Zoe's emotions well up until Heather reminds her of Katie's wishes to continue with the show. Zoe finds the strength to honor Katie's wishes.

On the night of the performance, Zoe sends Katie a simple text: "You can do it. All you have to do is do it." Zoe takes the stage and delivers a heartfelt rendition of "Moon River" from Breakfast at Tiffany's. The performance transitions into "Nowadays" from Chicago, and unexpectedly, Katie joins Zoe on stage. Amid initial astonishment, Zoe happily engages in the song, eventually winning over the audience. As the song concludes, the two embrace in a kiss as they revel in the moment...and with each other. Together.

BRUTALLY NORMAL