The classic musical “Grease” has a new adaptation that reimagines the iconic play and film and is coming to North Vancouver at Centennial Theatre on November 8th.
The play titled “Bear Grease” is a reimagined spin-off of the musical and movie that you know and love told through a indigenous lens. It was created by the Los Angeles-based hip-hop duo LightningCloud, comprised of Crystle Lightning and MC RedCloud (Henry Andrade). This reimagined play has been catching the eyes of audiences across North America for the last 3 years since its creation.
Bear Grease the musical is a re-imagined spin off the hit film Grease that has been entertaining audiences across North America.
To hear more about the success of the show, APTN News spoke with show creator and director Crystal Lightening.https://t.co/qzCrJIwpcg
— APTN News (@APTNNews) November 1, 2024
“Bear Grease” still stays in 1950s setting of the original show but infuses it with Indigenous culture, music, and storytelling, that adds a fresh perspective to the familiar tale of teenage love and rebellion. While honoring the original characters and themes, LightningCloud has added elements of Indigenous identity, history, and tradition which created a setting that feels extremely new but also stays true to the original.
In this adaptation, “Bear Grease” is set in a parallel universe where colonization never happened, Indigenous youth that is celebration of Indigenous resilience, humour, and joy. Although it still takes place in the same time period, it reimagines some of the aesthetics and cultural references. Instead of poodle skirts, the women wear outfits adorned with beadwork and ribbons; and the T-Birds are now the Thunderbirds
The recognizable hits from “Grease” are given a unique twist, As Lightning explains the show still stays true to the legendary early rock ‘n’ roll sound from that era but will incorporate other sounds such as traditional drumming, flute, and hip-hop. This will allow audience members to enjoy the nostalgia of the classic tunes, but with a unique mix as it blends them with more traditional and modern sounds that creates a newer musical atmosphere that is both catchy and experimental.
Crystle Lightning and MC RedCloud have taken their own lived experiences as Indigenous artists and woven them into this production, creating an opportunity for viewers to learn and appreciate Indigenous culture through music and dance. The production has been embraced by audiences for its humor, heart, and creativity, as well as for its commitment to authentic Indigenous representation. Lightning explains how Bear Grease is a joyful, witty response to this absence, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved musical while showcasing Indigenous talent and culture.
We created this show as a way to celebrate our identity, and have some fun with one of our favourite musicals.”
“Bear Grease” promises to be an unforgettable experience for both the die-hard fans of the original and the newcomers. So if your interested or a fan of Grease, Grab your leather jackets and poodle skirts with a twist, and get ready to experience “Grease” with a soulful, Indigenous spirit.