Every year the MLHS Theater Department enchants the town with their whimsical productions like Into the Woods, or Beauty and the Beast, or their historical dramas like Fiddler on the Roof. This year the MLHS Theater Department is taking a turn into the 1950’s world of Grease.
Although many think of John Travolta’s slinky hair or Olivia Newton John’s classic black leather outfit when they think of Grease, the musical was actually created first in 1972, six years before the cult-classic film hit the screen. The one and only actress to star in both of these adaptations, Jan played by Jamie Donnelly, is an MLHS alum from the class of 1964, who will be attending the show!
The theater department has also gone out of its way to immerse the audience into the musical whilst also following COVID-19 safety guidelines. The stage will be outdoors in the main parking lot of MLHS, set up with circular seating and sound. There will also be vendors, like our local favorite ice cream shop, Scoops, and other food trucks, all selling 1950’s era refreshments to add to the atmosphere. You also might have been able to spot vintage-era cars sporting the parking lot recently, as the production is borrowing a 1958 Ford Fairlane from Mr. Tom Hartfod, a Mountain Lakes resident of forty years. All of these details in costume, design, food, and sets create a world nostalgic to many.
The production is also being assisted by two theatre veterans, Jelani Remy, star of Broadway’s Ain’t Too Proud, as well as Michael Hollick, star of the Las Vegas production of The Lion King. The director of Grease, Christine Penney, has also been an integral part of the heart, soul, and mechanics of the production. The show simply could not go on without Ms. Penney. I was able to interview her, which you can hear below.
Writers Note* I was going to transcribe the interview below, but I felt as if listening to the boisterous laughs and pounding beat of “You’re The One That I Want” added not only to the ambiance of the interview, but gave a deeper insight into the warm welcoming atmosphere of the theater department.
Make sure to buy your tickets for $10 each at MLHS.booktix.com. Grease performances take place June 10, 11, and 12 at 5:30 p.m. Additionally, a special dress rehearsal performance for all community members 55 years old and older will take place on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 at 4:30 pm. Admission is complimentary to this performance, and no reservations are necessary.
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