Ridgedale Players to present ‘Grease’

TROY — The Ridgedale Players teen actors will be performing “Grease” June 19-23.

The musical, by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, was later turned into the beloved film that featured the talents of John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, among other talented performers. The show takes place in the 1950s and follows the love story of greaser Danny Zuko and good girl Sandy Dumbrowski, as well as their friends from the greaser gangs, the T-Birds and the Pink Ladies. On top of this, the show features some favorite classic rock and pop songs like “Summer Night,” “Grease Lightnin” and “We Go Together,” among other well-known hits.

After the original director stepped down, the Ridgedale Players production is directed by Bill Davenport and Caitlin O’Brien.

“Auditions for this show started in April, and we’ve had a lot of fun with this show. More fun than I expected,” O’Brien said. “The kids are so great, and the music is a lot of fun.”

The show features the talents of actors from ages 13-18.

Alyssa Sharp, who plays Sandy, and Austin “AJ” Denome, who plays Danny, are both from Dakota High School in Macomb County.

This is Sharp’s second production with the Ridgedale Players, though she has done other productions with the Warren Civic Theatre, as well as her own high school.

“Sandy is a dream role for me, and it’s been a dream come true,” Sharp said. “This has been a really great environment. Everyone has been very supportive, and I’ve got to meet new people.”

This is Denome’s first show with the Ridgedale Players, but he has done multiple shows through his high school and other community theaters in the area.

“It’s been crazy, because I was not expecting at all to get Danny, and I’m glad to be playing this role,” Denome said. “It’s been cool to work with other people.”

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday productions will start at 7 p.m., and the Sunday production will start at 3 p.m. For Wednesday, the Ridgedale Players and Troy People Concerned will be collaborating for a special performance of “Grease” that will include a silent auction and refreshments. Those interested can also donate to the TPC through their PayPal at https://rb.gy/23xzue. Tickets for Wednesday’s performance cost $15-$25, while the rest of the show dates will have tickets available for around $15.

For more information, visit facebook.com/ridgedaleplayerstheatre or ridgedaleplayers.com.