ACT@The Creek’s "Grease" Sets the Stage for a Record-Breaking Run
Indian Creek's Alumni and Community Theater program (ACT@The Creek) wrapped up its fourth annual summer production with a record-breaking run of Grease, delighting audiences with four performances over two weekends, the first time the program has expanded beyond its traditional three-show schedule.
The production welcomed its largest audience in Creek history, highlighted by a Saturday celebration featuring a classic car show in partnership with the Lost in the 50's Car Club of Maryland. The partnership carried special significance, as the club's president once worked for Mrs. Derner, the original landowner of the property where Indian Creek now stands. The show also featured the iconic "Greased Lightning," a real 1951 Chevy Deluxe.
Bringing together Indian Creek alumni from the Classes of 2013–2026, faculty, parents, and community actors, the cast and crew showcased everyone from professional performers to first-time actors! Surprise cameos included Director of Alumni Relations Matt McCormick and Chief Philanthropy & Strategy Officer Tyler Larkin, along with featured production roles from Upper School faculty Evan Ash and Emily Judson ’14.
Read the rave Maryland Theatre Guide review of the performance here:
With an infectious score, memorable characters, and irresistible rock ‘n’ roll energy, few musicals evoke nostalgia as much as “Grease,” inspiring numerous revivals and a 1978 hit film. With a book, music, and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, this musical continues to delight audiences more than 50 years after its premiere in 1971. The Alumni and Community Theater (ACT) at Indian Creek School is currently bringing the charm of the 1950s to the stage. Helmed by Director Matt McCormick and Musical Director and Choreographer Jill Woodward, “Grease” features a very talent cast and captures the show’s timeless appeal.
“Grease” revolves around two teenage cliques: the rowdy, Burger Palace Boys and the free-spirited Pink Ladies who rule the social scene at Rydell High School. Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski unexpectedly reunite after a summer romance they thought was behind them. As they navigate their senior year, the teens (and their friends) grapple with friendship, self-discovery, and first love while trying to find their place in the ever-changing world of high school.
With excellent vocals and genuine chemistry, Dawson Olsen as Danny Zuko and Madison Jennings as Sandy Dumbrowski gave wonderful performances. Olsen balanced charisma and swagger in his portrayal of Danny, making the character both relatable and magnetic. Jennings conveyed Sandy’s innocence and determination, firmly standing her ground when forced to choose between fitting in and staying true to her values.
The Burger Palace Boys were portrayed by Evan Ash as Kenickie, Matthew Eli Gray as Doody, Skylar Switzer as Roger, and Jared Zutt as Sonny Latierri. This ensemble was tremendously entertaining, bringing comedic interplay and raucous mischief to the group. Ash gave a spirited rendition of “Greased Lightnin’,” delivering the lyrics and dance moves with bravado. As a featured soloist in “Those Magic Changes,” Gray displayed a pleasant tenor voice. His duet with Switzer, “Rock ‘N” Roll Party Queen,” was marvelous.
Erin Jones as Betty Rizzo, Kat Rini as Frenchy, Jordyne Hebron as Marty, and Alayna Fulton as Jan excelled as the Pink Ladies. This quartet harmonized beautifully, and Hebron’s vocals shined in “Freddy, My Love.” In “There Are Worse Things I Could Do,” Jones poignantly communicated Rizzo’s struggle with constantly being misunderstood.
Other noteworthy performances included Anne Weigt who depicted English teacher, Miss Lynch’s no-nonsense persona through deadpan delivery. Her performance in the school dance scene was hilarious. As the band leader Johnny Casino, Matty Ferris performed “Born to Hand Jive” with contagious exuberance. In the iconic “Beauty School Dropout” number, Matt McCormick’s Teen Angel was marked by tender mentoring and excellent vocals.
Amber Wolfe’s set design centered the backdrop around a massive jukebox, adding to the production’s sentimental atmosphere. She additionally took on the herculean task of bringing a real car onstage for “Greased Lightnin’.” Outfitting the cast in leather jackets and poodle skirts, Emily Judson’s costume design incorporated authentic period fashions. An array of props, coordinated by Carol Jones, displayed vintage decor, further evoking the era.
At its core, “Grease” goes far beyond a journey back in time to the 1950s. This cultural touchstone brings the exhilaration and uncertainty of adolescence to the forefront, reminding audiences that the challenges of finding oneself and fitting in transcend generations. ACT delivers a rousing evening of entertainment that celebrates the timeless appeal of this cherished, pop culture classic. It is sure to be among the “Summer Nights” you won’t soon forget!
Link to Grease photo gallery: https://indiancreekschool.myschoolapp.com/app/detail/album/photo/2293787
Indian Creek School
Indian Creek school is a co-educational, college preparatory independent school, located in Crownsville, Maryland. Students in Pre-K3 through grade 12 receive a vibrant educational experience based on excellent academics steeped in strong student-teacher connections.
