SBHS Pirandello Players Present Grease — Celebrating 40 Years Since Its Last SBHS Production

The South Brunswick High School Pirandello Players are proud to present their 2026 spring musical, Grease, celebrating 40 years since the iconic production was last performed at South Brunswick High School. Performances will take place April 30 through May 2 in the SBHS Auditorium.

Few musicals capture the energy, nostalgia, and cultural impact of American musical theater like Grease. Known for its unforgettable characters, high-energy choreography, and beloved songs, the production promises to deliver a vibrant theatrical experience for audiences of all ages.

This year’s production holds special distinction. South Brunswick High School received approval to include select songs from the original motion picture soundtrack — permissions that are not granted to many school productions — adding an exciting and authentic dimension to the performance.

“Grease is truly iconic — it’s ‘the word,’” said Jillian Trader, Musical Director of the production. “It’s a show that audiences already love, and our goal is to honor those characters while bringing our own personality and energy to them. There’s something special about revisiting a classic. It allows students to experience a different era — how people dressed, how they interacted — while also discovering how many of the themes still connect to today.”

The production also carries a meaningful connection to South Brunswick’s past. Archival records show that the last SBHS production of Grease was staged approximately 40 years ago by the SBHS Players under the direction of theater educator Tara Handschin, drawing strong community interest at the time. The 2026 production continues that legacy, bringing the beloved musical to a new generation of students and audiences.

The production features a live pit orchestra performing in a rock band-style setting, period costumes inspired by the 1950s, and dynamic staging that captures the spirit of the era while showcasing the remarkable talent of South Brunswick students.

For the cast, the experience has been deeply immersive.

“Being part of Grease brings so many mixed emotions — there are heartfelt moments, fun moments, and so much joy,” said a student performer portraying Sandy. “We spend months really connecting with our characters and bringing them to life.”

While South Brunswick High School has presented a wide range of contemporary musicals in recent years — including The Addams Family (2022), Chicago (2023), Mamma Mia! (2024), and Mean Girls (2025) — returning to a classic like Grease offers students a unique opportunity to explore the music, culture, and storytelling traditions that shaped modern musical theater.

Audiences can expect favorite moments including “Greased Lightning’,” “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” and other beloved songs that continue to resonate generations later.

With its blend of nostalgia, humor, romance, and electrifying music, Grease promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience for the South Brunswick community.

Performance Schedule
April 30 at 6:30 PM
May 1 at 6:30 PM
May 2 at 1:00 PM and 6:30 PM

Location
South Brunswick High School Auditorium

Tickets
$10 Students | $12 Adults
Tickets available at the door