It may be cold, but audiences will be transported back to “those summer nights” with George Fischer Middle School’s upcoming production of “Grease – The School Version.”
“Choosing a musical for middle schoolers is a balancing act between age-appropriateness, talent levels, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting,” explained Director and Co-Advisor Christine DiTota. “You want a show with great roles, catchy music, and room for an enthusiastic ensemble. Because, let’s face it, not everyone is here for the solos.”
Performances are scheduled Friday, Jan. 24 at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, Jan. 25 at 1 and 6 p.m., in the GFMS auditorium on Fair Street in Carmel. Maureen Pio is a co-advisor, producer and stage manager, while Aja Broderson is the music director and Christine Gavin is the choreographer.
This classic musical has it all: timeless tunes, big dance numbers, and plenty of opportunities for students to embrace their inner 1950s cool cats.
“The edited version keeps things PG, making it safe for the school stage while still delivering the charm of the original,” explained DiTota. “With its mix of fun, nostalgia, and lessons on friendship and self-expression, ‘Grease’ hits the sweet spot between teaching teamwork and just letting kids have a blast pretending they’re in a diner or a sock hop.’
The director said prepping for a show like “Grease” is like building a 1950’s time machine.
“There’s a lot to do, but it’s a blast,” she said. “It starts with casting your Pink Ladies and Burger Palace Boys, followed by rehearsals filled with hand jives, harmonies, and figuring out how to choreograph a dance around a race car. Add in poodle skirts, leather jackets, backdrops, and enough hair gel to defy gravity, and you’re halfway there.”
But the magic doesn’t just happen on stage. Behind the scenes, choreographers, vocal coaches, producers, costumers and directors hustle to bring all of the elements together.
“For kids who prefer to steer clear of the spotlight, there’s no shortage of roles to dive into,” said DiTota. “We’ve got backstage hands managing the chaos, painters bringing Rydell High to life, spot operators making sure Danny and Sandy shine, and runners keeping things moving faster than ‘Greased Lightning.’ Whether they’re building sets, wrangling props, or calling cues, there’s a job for everyone — and it’s just as rewarding (and fun) as being on stage.”
In total, a whopping 70-ish students will be involved in the production of “Grease.”
“It’s a lot of work, but when the kids light up the stage on Jan. 24, it will be pure Rydell High magic,” said DiTota.
Tickets are on sale now and may be ordered in advance at https://gfms.booktix.com, or purchased at the door (cash only).
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