'Grease' will be performed by Norwin thespians

Joe Napsha TribLive Thu, Mar 7, 2024 • 12:01 AM

Part of the cast of “Grease: The School Version” is pictured. From left are Norwin seniors who play the roles of Sandy and Danny: Nora Ilnicki and Drew Brown in the Thursday and Saturday performances, and Casey Colcombe and Zack Garbinski in the Friday and Sunday performances. Norwin High School Theatre Company Norwin High School Theatre Company

The Norwin High School Theatre Company is going back to the 1950s with its presentation of “Grease: School Version” for its spring musical on March 21 to 24.

“We think our students are ready to perform in this iconic Broadway classic,” said Lauren Scheirer, producer and vocal director for the company.

The heart of the 1950’s classic is the romance between hot-rodding gangster Danny Zuko and the sweet new girl in school, Sandy Dumbrowski. They had a summer romance, but the cliques in school make their love more complicated.

The musical will be performed at 7 p.m. March, 21, 22 and 23 and at 2 p.m. March 24 at the Norwin High School auditorium, 251 McMahon Drive, North Huntingdon.

“I’m super thrilled to be putting on a production of ‘Grease.’ It’s such an awesome show with so many things happening, and I’m glad I’m a part of it. Kenickie is one of my favorite roles I’ve ever had so I’m very happy to be a part of this classic production,” said senior Luke Klamut, who is the student president of the Norwin Theatre Company.

“I’m thrilled to be a part of this classic show! My mom grew up watching Grease and it’s become a well loved musical in my family. I’m excited to have the opportunity to perform as Sandy, a character that I can really resonate with,” said senior Nora Ilnicki, who is the dance captain and student vice president of the theatre company.

There are 88 students in the cast and crew. Scheirer is assisted by Erin Shrader, the creative and costume director and choreographer, and Todd Leighty the technical director. The trio created the Norwin High School Theatre Company in 2012.

For information about purchasing tickets, visit the Norwin Theatre Company website at nhstheatrecompany.com. Tickets go on sale through the theatre company website on March 1 at

showtix4u.com/event-details/78951. The tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for students and senior citizens.

Joe Napsha is a TribLive reporter covering Irwin, North Huntingdon and the Norwin School District. He also writes about business issues. He grew up on Neville Island and has worked at the Trib since the early 1980s. He can be reached at jnapsha@triblive.com.