Ramsey Theatre Company’s production of ‘Grease’ set for this weekend
Published 7:31 pm Thursday, November 21, 2024
Ramsey Theatre Company is bringing the story of Sandy, Danny, Rizzo, Kenickie and their pals from Rydell High to the stage this weekend with its production of “Grease.”
The show will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at SKyPAC as part of its Broadway Series, sponsored by Greenwood Ford Lincoln.
Set in the 1950s, the classic tale of teenage love and friendship will feature songs like “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightning” and “You’re the One that I Want.”
“Grease is one of those shows that truly stands the test of time, captivating generation after generation,” said Makenzie Belcher, Arts of Southern Kentucky marketing and PR assistant. “Bringing this beloved tale to SKyPAC through our Ramsey Theatre Company is something special. The songs have a way of staying with you, keeping you singing long after the production ends.”
Diane DiCroce, director of “Grease” and producing artistic director for Ramsey Theatre Company, said she has enjoyed her time directing the musical.
“I have loved directing ‘Grease’ for the Ramsey Theatre Company,” she said. “It’s such a high energy show that so many people love.”
The cast includes local and regional actors, as well as actors based in New York and Los Angeles.
“For me, personally, the ‘Grease’ movie was a big part of my childhood,” DiCroce said. “My mother actually let me see it four times in the movie theater.”
DiCroce, who played the character of Rizzo twice when she was in her 20s, said she is still friends with the other Pink Ladies and Greasers from both productions.
“In fact, the second time I played Rizzo, my husband (of 28 years) played Kenickie,” she said.
She said that “Grease” creates a sense of nostalgia for people who were teenagers in the 1950’s – particularly in 1959, when the story takes place – but it also brings back a lot of great memories for those who remember seeing the movie in 1978.
Belcher said that two weeks ago, the show partnered with Greenwood Ford Lincoln for a photoshoot, which included a 1949 Cadillac and a newer red Corvette from the showroom.
“Our cast came together, props in hand, to pose with these vehicles and create some unforgettable moments,” Belcher said. “It was a privilege to bring this vision to life and celebrate the spirit of ‘Grease’ in such a memorable way.”
She said she wanted to thank Greenwood Ford Lincoln, all of the sponsors and Robert Ramsey, who started the Ramsey Theatre Company.
“All of this is made possible because of him,” she said. “We wouldn’t be who we are without him and his generosity.”
Belcher said that watching the show come together has been “incredible.”
“I know it will create unforgettable memories for so many,” she said.
Ticket holders are invited to arrive early for a pre-show celebration, which will take place at 6 p.m. before both productions at the Carol Wedge Studio Theater at SKyPAC.
The event will feature vintage cars on the plaza, “Grease”-themed drinks, live entertainment from Ramsey Theater Company alums, a photo booth and more.
For more information and tickets, visit theskypac.com.