Carole Demas Visits West Orange High School, Inspires Young Actors

WEST ORANGE, NJ — West Orange High School’s cast of “Grease” had an unforgettable experience during a recent rehearsal when they got a visit from Carole Demas, who originated the role of Sandy in the 1972 Broadway musical.

Demas spent more than four hours with the students, sharing her wisdom and insights from years in the industry.

Although “Grease” is often seen as a lighthearted musical, Demas helped the young WOHS actors’ understanding of their characters, hosting a Q&A session with cast members and surprising everyone with signed memorabilia.

Musical director John Hellyer reached out to Demas after reading the book “Tell Me More, Tell Me More,” which chronicles the creation of the show and interviews all the original Broadway and subsequent tour/replacement actors.

“Carole Demas is a beautiful person who looks and sounds amazing even after all these years,” Hellyer said, adding that she stayed to watch the students rehearse and sang a skit about the mixed reviews that “Grease” received in 1972, set to the Gershwin song, “They All Laughed.”

The WOHS presentation of “Grease” will take place from March 31 to April 2. Purchase tickets or learn more here.

• See Related: West Orange High School Actors To Present 'Grease' For Spring Musical

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