Fast cars, first loves, ‘50s music in ‘Grease’

Start the summer off right with the West Hudson Arts and Theater Company (W.H.A.T.) production of America’s favorite musical, “Grease.” The musical bursts on to the W.H.A.T. stage Wednesday, June 24, in an all-new production directed by Beatriz Esteban-Messina; musical direction by Scott Burzynski.

This rock-n-roll celebration of growing up and falling in love set in the fabulous fifties strikes a universal chord with an irresistible mix of fast cars and first loves. It’s Danny and Sandy, Frenchy and Kenickie, and don’t forget about Rizzo.

“Grease” is a thrilling injection of pure fun with astounding dancing and amazing songs. On Broadway, the musical won seven Tony Awards, a Drama Desk Award and a Theatre World Award.

The cast includes Michelle Almeida as Sandy, Mike Antonelli as Kenicke, Rod Bell as Eugene, Amber Brown as Frenchy, Faith D’Isa as Marty, Richard Dwyer as Vince Fontaine, Celeste Fasone as Miss Lynch, Jack Haefner as Danny Zuko, Maria Huapalla as Cha Cha/angel, Dennis Oliveira as Sonny, Gustavo Oliveira as Doody, Michael Oliveira as Roger, Alyssa Schirm as angel/ freshman, Julia Truskolawski as Patty Simcox, Jennifer Wagner as Jan and Devin Waso as Rizzo.

“W.H.A.T is thrilled to bring America’s most popular musical to West Hudson,” said Jerry Ficeto, W.H.A.T. president. “Our production will feature the iconic songs from the feature film along with favorite tunes from the stage version. This show will be a great opportunity to share an entertaining day of theater with friends and families.”

“Grease,” with book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, will be performed Wednesday, June 24, at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, June 25, at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, June 26, at 1:30 and 7:30 p.m., at the W.H.A.T. Theater, First Lutheran Church, 65 Oakwood Ave., Kearny. Tickets are $18 for general admission; $15 for seniors & students.

Tickets for all performances are available online at www.whatco.org or by calling 201- 467-8624. Some tickets will be available at the theater 30 minutes before each performance (cash or check only).

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