Rydell High. The Pink Ladies. The T-Birds greasers. Sandy. Danny. Cha Cha.
They'll all grace the Powerhouse Theatre as Vernon's Center Stage Performing Arts Academy's beloved performance troupe, Lights of Broadway, rolls back the clock and revs up the nostalgia to celebrate its 25th anniversary season in style with a high-octane production of the iconic musical Grease.
"This silver-anniversary show promises to be a vibrant tribute to the power of performance, community, and timeless rock 'n' roll energy," said Center Stage founder Charity Van Gameren, who is directing the production.
Audiences can catch Grease at the Powerhouse Theatre on Friday and Saturday, May 23 and 24 at 7 p.m., with a matinee performance on Sunday, May 25 at 2 p.m., and additional evening shows on Thursday to Saturday, May 29, 30, and 31, at 7 p.m.
These six performances mark a quarter-century of excellence from the Center Stage Performing Arts Academy’s Lights of Broadway, a local institution known for nurturing talent of all ages and inspiring audiences year after year.
Grease is a culmination of creativity, dedication, and the artistic spirit that has fueled Lights of Broadway since its inception. Van Gameren's leadership is paired with the talents of assistant director and acting coach Sarah Mori Jones, whose guidance brings depth and authenticity to each performance, and Cherise McInnis, whose high-energy dance numbers promise to bring down the house.
"This show is a celebration of where we've come from, the students who have grown through our programs, and the joy of live theatre," said Van Gameren. "Grease is the perfect vehicle — it's fun, familiar, and filled with heart. Our cast is giving it everything they've got."
Taking centre stage are two rising stars: Sidney Prachnau as the sweet and spirited Sandy Dembrowski, and Sam Motyer as the cool and conflicted Danny Zuko. Their chemistry brings new life to the classic high school romance, set against the backdrop of 1950s Rydell High.
"Playing Sandy is surreal and exciting, such a beloved character," said Prachnau. "She starts out so unsure of herself, and watching her grow into her own strength is a powerful journey."
Added Motyer: "Danny is torn between fitting in and doing what's right, and the layers is what makes him such a fun role. The music, the dancing, the character, it has been an exciting year. Learning to do the tango and flip Cha Cha over my head has been a learning curve."
This milestone production is more than just a musical — it's a reflection of 25 years of dedication to the arts. Lights of Broadway has long been a beacon for performers of all ages offering training, mentorship, and a chance to shine in the North Okanagan in front of packed houses. Many alumni have gone on to professional careers in theatre, film, and music, but for all involved, the academy remains a cherished home base.
"Every performance is about connection — between actor and audience, teacher and student, past and present," said Van Gameren, "and this show, in particular, is a love letter to the community that has supported us all these years.
"With its infectious score featuring hits like "Summer Nights," "Greased Lightning," and "You're the One That I Want," Grease is the kind of show that sticks with you long after the final curtain call. And under the iconic lights of the Powerhouse Theatre, it's poised to do just that."
Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so be sure to grab yours and join Lights of Broadway as they cruise into their 25th season with style, sass, and plenty of leather jackets.
Show Dates & Times
May 23, 24, 29, 30, 31 at 7 p.m.;
May 25 Matinee at 2 p.m.
Powerhouse Theatre
Tickets can be purchased through Center Stage's website ticket service at https://centerstageperformingartsacademy.com/vernonevents.
