WMVO Good Times Great Oldies
Leather jackets, poodle skirts and rock-and-roll are making their way to downtown Mount Vernon as MTVarts prepares to bring the iconic musical Grease to the historic Woodward Opera House.
The production will run July 10 through July 19, featuring a cast of local performers, a live on-stage band, energetic choreography and the unforgettable music that has made Grease one of the most popular musicals in theater history.
The story follows Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski as they reunite after a summer romance and navigate the friendships, challenges and excitement of life at Rydell High. Audiences can expect familiar favorites including “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin’,” “Beauty School Dropout,” “Hand Jive,” “Those Magic Changes,” and “We Go Together.”
Leading the cast are Will Stewart as Danny Zuko and Hannah Marshall as Sandy Dumbrowski. They are joined by Kylie Stadler Hoam as Betty Rizzo, Alex Snodgrass as Kenickie, Sage Szucs as Frenchy, Kiarah Smith as Marty, Bella Oster as Jan, Jayson Herbst as Doody, Silas Hoam as Roger, Peyton Hauenstein Cline as Sonny LaTierri, Sydney Orrison as Patty Simcox, Carter Skillman as Eugene Florczyk, Gordon Gantt as Vince Fontaine and Teen Angel, Madison Sichna as Cha-Cha DiGregorio, Emily Fletcher as Miss Lynch and a large supporting ensemble.
Director Bruce Jacklin says the musical has endured for generations because of its relatable story.
“There’s something timeless about Grease. Beneath the leather jackets, poodle skirts and rock-and-roll swagger is a story about belonging, friendship and discovering who you are. Every generation finds something familiar in these characters, and that’s what keeps audiences coming back.”
The production is led by producers Janis Stone and Carla Swallow and features an extensive volunteer creative team responsible for choreography, music, costumes, lighting, sound, scenic design and stage management.
Adding to the experience is the Rydell All-Stars Band, performing live during every show under the direction of Christa Brady. The production also features custom scenic elements, including the famous Greased Lightnin’ car, built specifically for the show.
In all, more than 60 performers, musicians, technicians, designers and volunteers have contributed to bringing the production to life, making it one of MTVarts’ largest community theater efforts in recent years.
While Grease celebrates the fun and energy of the 1950s, organizers note the production includes mild adult humor and themes reflective of the era. The show is presented at a PG-13 level, and parental discretion is recommended for younger children.
Tickets, performance times and additional information are available at MTVarts.com and MVAC.or
