Set in the 1950s, Grease follows the iconic story of Sandy, Danny, and their friends navigating the highs and lows of teenage life. With memorable songs like “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightning,” and “We Go Together,” the production promises a lively, upbeat experience for audiences of all ages. When asked about why he chose the show, Quaker Valley Middle School Musical Director Tom Forrest shared, “It’s fun—it’s light, and it’s something that so many people know, love, and grew up with. The music is infectious, too.”
Quaker Valley’s talented middle school cast set to start working to learn choreography, vocals, and staging to bring the show to life, as the cast was announced on Monday, September 8. The production is a true community effort, with students, staff, and families all contributing their time and creativity.
Gavin Lindeman, who will play Danny, has participated in the musical each year in middle school: “Back in fifth grade, I watched the middle school musical Frozen, and I was inspired to go. Then, I was excited to come back every year, and it’s like a passion.”
“It’s a really good time with my friends,” said Addy Le Vann, who will play Sandy in the production. “In sixth grade, I didn’t have any classes with my friends, and [musical] is just a great time to meet with new people. The cast are all my best friends.”
In addition to their scheduled shows, the musical cast and crew is sponsoring a carnival on Friday, October 10 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. This carnival will celebrate the spirit of Rydell High and will benefit Quaker Valley Middle School’s Best Buddies Program.
The nostalgia associated with Grease is yet another reason the production is so appealing, Mr. Forrest shared, “I used to do musicals back when I was a high schooler at Avonworth, and Grease was probably my favorite. I was in the cast with another QVMS teacher, Ms. Bruno!
“When I knew how many talented performers we would have auditioning this year, I realized that it would be perfect for our cast, especially since there is a School Edition available. We have an outstanding cast this year. They were so funny in auditions, and you can just feel the chemistry between some of them. They know one another’s timing; they’re hilarious.”
Mr. Forrest is joined by Producer Megan Mueller, who also participated in a Quaker Valley Production of Grease when she was in school. “Being back at Quaker Valley as a staff and musical production team member has brought about a lot of full circle moments. I am so happy to be back on the other side of theater as a producer. It makes me appreciate what our production team did for us when I was on the QV stage.”
Performances will be held in the Quaker Valley Middle School auditorium on the following dates:
- Thursday, November 7
- Friday, November 8
- Saturday, November 9
- Thursday, November 14
- Friday, November 15
Showtimes and ticketing details will be announced later this fall.
Productions like Grease highlight Quaker Valley’s commitment to fostering creativity, collaboration, and confidence in its students. The middle school musical has long been a tradition of community pride, and this year’s performance is expected to be a memorable highlight of the school year.