By Alexa Loera, Greenwich High School, class of 2026
Later this school year, Greenwich High School will put on its beloved annual spring musical, this time performing the theater classic Grease, written by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. 
First performed on Broadway in 1971, Grease follows Chicago adolescents in the 1950s as they navigate their senior year, specifically focusing on the relationship between greaser Danny Zuko and new student Sandy Dumbrowski. Although originally written for the stage, the show was popularized on a global scale with the release of a film adaptation in 1978 starring John Travolta and Olivia Newtown-John.
Director Patricia Cirigliano, who also teaches in the English and Theater Departments at GHS explained the choice of Grease for the spring musical.
Greenwich High School rehearsal of Grease in the school’s performing arts center. May 8, 2026 Photo: Henry Freyer
Greenwich High School rehearsal of Grease in the school’s performing arts center. May 8, 2026 Photo: Henry Freyer
Greenwich High School rehearsal of Grease in the school’s performing arts center. May 8, 2026 Photo: Henry Freyer
Greenwich High School rehearsal of Grease in the school’s performing arts center. May 8, 2026 Photo: Henry Freyer
Greenwich High School rehearsal of Grease in the school’s performing arts center. May 8, 2026 Photo: Henry Freyer
“The team discusses possible choices and applies for rights for the shows we are considering. One of the most important criteria for me is making sure that we select a show that has many parts for both men and women as well as opportunities for students to have a meaningful part in the show as ensemble members.”
“Grease is also a fabulous ensemble show because there are so many awesome dance numbers in the show including ‘We Go Together,’ ‘Greased Lightning,’ and ‘Born to Hand Jive,’” Cirigliano added.
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In addition to Cirigliano as director, the team includes Luke Rosenberg, the music director; Frank Mastrone, the choreographer; and Scott Borowka, the tech director.
As director, Cirigliano’s role includes casting, organizing a rehearsal schedule, staging, publicity, and creating a unified vision for the production alongside the rest of the creative team. This year, Cirigliano is also costuming the production.
The annual spring musical is the penultimate performance GHS puts on during the school year. It is preceded by the annual Shakespeare play, the On Stage! musical, the winter play, and Magic Circle. The spring musical will be followed by the Play-In-A-Day, marking the end of the theater season at GHS until the following year.
Senior Anya Audet, who has been a part of the department since her freshman year, reflected on her experience.
“Getting to be a part of GHS theater over the last four years has truly been one of the best things that had ever happened to me—not only have I gotten to perform in amazing shows and musicals but it’s given me, and many others, the chance to really grow as performers. Everyone who works on these productions, especially the big spring musicals, does everything they can to make it a wonderful show, but also an encouraging and fun environment for new and experienced performers. I’m so lucky to have gotten to be a part of it throughout high school and can’t wait for my final performance in Grease!”
Auditions for Grease were held in February, with the students consistently rehearsing after school since then. On April 22, the crew began building the set. Tech rehearsals, which include full wardrobe, blocking, and lighting began on May 4.
Greenwich High School’s Grease will be performed on May 14, 15, and 16. All performances will be at 7:00pm, and will be located in the school’s Performing Arts Center, also known as the PAC.
Tickets will be available to purchase at the door, or click here for ticket link.
More information here on the GHS theater productions.