There’s a surprise in store for audiences after the curtain closes, at the end of Grease—it opens again! The extra serving of pop culture was Director David Fritsch’s idea. “I wanted to get the whole theater involved,” he said.
See the show! Grease: The Musical runs March 20, 21 & 22 at 7 pm, plus a 1 pm matinee on March 22 | $10 at the door.
The seasoned director not only knows how to delight the audience, but how to get the most from middle school actors. In rehearsals, he can direct their movements like the conductor of an orchestra, and his high standards create a community in which students’ talents thrive.
Co-producer Marcia Daley Savo speaks to the growth that happens through John Jay Middle School productions—from students stepping out of their comfort zones during auditions to the dynamic results on opening night.
“Watching the cast grow together as a group is so joyful,” she said. “We have a very special niche in this building where sixth, seventh and eighth graders come together with the common goal to create great art and as a side benefit all become friends.”
The team that makes John Jay Middle School’s theater happen is as well-oiled of a machine as the 1948 Ford DeLuxe known as Greased Lightning.
While choreographer Maria Calaco just joined the crew, Director Fritsch, Co-Producers Daley-Savo and Gloria Miller, and Sound Designer Jesse Weiss have worked together on middle school productions for the last 15+ years.
Director Fritsch is closing in on his fiftieth production for John Jay Middle School. “I may have to teach another two years,” said Fritsch. “How can I stop at 47?”
