Grease is the Word!
Written by Kanak Vanam
Edited by Jules Nasser
“One of the most enjoyable yet elaborate performances ISA will ever see.” - Anna Voronina, Grade 10
Under the direction of Ms. Susie Shreeve, Grease promises to bring a burst of energy, music, and nostalgia to the ISA stage this December 3rd, 4th, and 5th. This marks Ms. Shreeve’s second year directing at the International School of Amsterdam, following her ISA directorial debut with last year’s unforgettable production of A Monster Calls. The infamous show that moved one and all to tears was described by many as "the best production this school has ever seen”, setting the bar rather high for what’s to come. But if there’s anyone ready to meet that challenge, it is without a doubt Ms. Shreeve. Last year’s A Monster Calls was a truly special experience. But Grease is bringing a whole new kind of magic– bigger, bolder, and bursting with music. In Ms. Shreeve’s own words, “I think this one’s going to give A Monster Calls a real run for its money”. Since auditions took place back in September, the Grease cast has been hard at work bringing the story of Rydell High to life. Every week, the theatre has been buzzing with intense choreography rehearsals, musical sessions, and (more recently now) breathtaking costume fittings. The air is filled with 1950s rock ‘n’ roll rhythms, laughing, and the now less increasingly occasional echo of discipline from our beloved director.
This year’s cast features an ensemble of students from across grades 9 to 12, with everyone contributing their own spark of personality to the show. The T-Birds and Pink Ladies are already bringing their own charisma to the stage, while our tireless ensemble adds infectious energy to the big group numbers. Everybody is somebody, because without somebody, nobody is anybody. And it seems that our cast agrees with this statement, according to Junie Aldrich (G10), who is portraying the role of Jan. She says, “What I love most about Grease is that it brings unlikely people together all through one shared passion”. Whether it’s Rizzo’s fierce independence, Danny’s often brazen yet overcompensating confidence, or Frenchy’s naive but sweet optimism, every character has already begun to shine.
As being the lucky person who has had the absolute chance of a lifetime to be our school’s first Sandy, I can safely say that playing Sandy has been an incredible journey for me. From learning to balance her innocence and warmth with what one might call the bold transition that defined the future of all bold transitions in Hollywood, to finding the courage to play my first romantic lead ever, it’s been both a challenge and an honor. There’s something so timeless about Sandy’s story (though one could argue that certain parts of her reformation are a bit outdated) - but elements such as staying true to yourself, and daring to change when it matters are what have helped me to connect the very most with this character.
Rehearsals have been intense but rewarding. The cast and crew often stay after school running through dance numbers until every step lines up perfectly. From “Summer Nights” to “Born to Hand Jive”, every song feels like a celebration of teamwork (though, I must say, Hopelessly Devoted to You, does happen to be a favorite of mine. I wonder why). Behind the scenes, our amazing backstage crew and stage managers, Zoe Imes, Liedewij Cels, and Gabriel López de Azúa Pabon, are crafting a world straight out of the 1950s. The set features everything from a bedroom fit for the mockery of one Sandra Dee to a state-of-the-art gleaming convertible. Furthermore, the costume team has been hard at work sourcing vintage outfits, leather jackets, and poofy skirts that would make Cinderella herself swoon. The visual transformation of the stage is simply magnificent. It really does feel like stepping into Rydell High.
Ms. Shreeve has been guiding us with passionate commitment every step of the way. Her vision for Grease isn’t just about recreating the movie - it’s about capturing its spirit and giving it new life with our own voices and stories. Most of all, it’s about bringing our audience the show of a lifetime with something never seen before at ISA. With opening night fast approaching in one week’s time, excitement is at an all-time high, posters are going up, and the countdown has officially begun. The cast is polishing their harmonies, the lights ready to shine. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Grease or seeing it for the first time, this show will have you singing, laughing, and dancing in your seat. So mark your calendars, grab a leather jacket, and get ready to Hand Jive the night away - because this December, Grease truly is the word.
