It’s ELECTRIFYIN’ !

In the mood for some summer lovin’? The Historic Savannah Theatre has you covered! Bringing you all things automatic, systematic, and hydromatic, their electrifying production of “Grease” has truly been the word around town (Okay, that’s enough script references now).

In all sincerity, “Grease” is a beast of a show to put on, much less well. From the elaborate costuming and scenery, grueling choreography, and a fanbase that is incredibly passionate about their favorite musical, it takes a truly dedicated cast, director, and stage team to make sure that everyone leaves happy. Fortunately, The Savannah Theatre has got “Grease” down to a science. After a stellar sold-out run in 2024, they have brought this beloved classic back with gusto, bringing the comedy, heart, and characters fans know and love to the stage, while also keeping everything lively enough that a newcomer will still be enthralled by the spectacle. Whether you know every song by heart or walk in not knowing what to expect, this show is for you! 

Perhaps even more importantly, the love for the show palpably extends throughout the cast as well. JoJo Ward, who plays “Roger” (aka “Putzie” for you film fans), stated, “My favorite part of Grease is always revisiting the material with my castmates. I grew up watching the movie religiously, and I love how I get to relive it all over again whenever I get to rehearse or perform this show onstage. Seeing generations of people who also know and love the film make it even better.” 

When asked further about whether or not there was a certain amount of pressure bringing such a well-loved classic to the stage, Ward seemed completely unfazed, playfully stating “Roger is definitely the type of fella I love to play - a class clown and prankster… Portraying [him] forces me to be humble and come back down to Earth, to live life, to make mistakes and take risks. Sometimes getting into the character really requires you to let loose and get ready to play, and playing with the ditzy personality of the ‘King of the Mooners’ creates my favorite part of the fun.” 

Bailey Connor, who plays the iconic beauty school dropout “Frenchy,” concurred with Ward that, though there is some pressure, the audience should go in expecting a whole new experience as opposed to just a fancified movie re-watch. She states, “The original play and the iconic movie have the same base plot, but are surprisingly different from one another; the original play, which the film was based off of, is much more of an ensemble show. It explores the journeys and romantic connections of not only Sandy and Danny, but of all of the T-Birds and Pink Ladies. [The audience will] get to see their favorite Rydell High couple, but will also get some bonus content from the original play that wasn’t included in the movie. It’s the best of both worlds!”

Needless to say, if you are looking to beat the heat this summer, The Savannah Theatre has you covered. “Grease” is running through the rest of the month, so go out and get your tickets now! You don’t want to miss out on the action. Remember, “If you can't be a theatrical performer, be a theatrical supporter”… Or whatever Principal McGee said. We promise you will have a blast!