Lightning Cloud proudly presents the New York premiere of Bear Grease, the smash hit Indigenous musical from Canada that’s set to begin an open-ended Off-Broadway run at St. Luke’s Theatre on Tuesday, June 10th. Written by Crystle Lightning and Henry Cloud Andrade, and directed by Lightning, this fearless, funny, and deeply heartfelt reimagining of the beloved classic Grease swaps 1950s Greasers and Pink Ladies for a cast that celebrates Indigenous identity, language, and music — all with Broadway-caliber flair.
More than just a musical, Bear Grease is a cultural joyride and an act of reclamation — a “rez-ed up” remix that pulses with powwow beats, stunning choreography, and side-splitting humor. Cree language (Nêhiyawêwin) is seamlessly woven into original songs, including “Wichihin,” a powerful Cree rendition of Stand by Me sung by Tammy Rae Lamouche (Rezzo), while Bryce Morin (Enoch Cree Nation) delivers a moving Round Dance version of “Hopelessly Devoted.” Traditional, Grass, Chicken, and Fancy dance styles ignite the stage in the electrifying number “Bear Grease Lightning,” blending ancestral movement with theatrical spectacle.
Originating on Treaty 6 territory in Alberta — the traditional lands of the Nehiyaw (Cree), Denesuline’ (Dene), Nakota Sioux (Stoney), Anishinaabe (Saulteaux), and Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) peoples — Bear Grease was born out of a lack of authentic opportunities for Indigenous voices in the performing arts. Since its grassroots inception, the show has grown into a North American sensation, performing in over 200 venues ranging from major theaters to community centers and powwow grounds, proving that Indigenous stories are not only relevant but essential.
“This is our yes,” says producer and co-creator Henry Cloud Andrade. “After centuries of being told no, of being sidelined or erased from the arts, Bear Grease is our declaration that we belong — and that our stories deserve to shine.” Director and co-creator Crystle Lightning adds, “This is a cultural reclamation. Taking the stage isn’t just about performance; it’s about presence. We’re planting a flag and saying, ‘We’re here, we’ve always been here, and we’re not going anywhere.’” Cast member Melody McArthur, who plays Sandy, shares, “We chose Grease because it’s iconic, instantly recognizable — a perfect vessel for translating Indigenous experiences in a way that resonates universally.”
The cast includes Bryce Morin as Danny, Melody McArthur as Sandy, Tammy Rae as Rezzo, Rodney Mcleod as Canuckie, Skylene Gladue (Nipîy Iskwew) as Jan, Justin Giehm as Sonny Boy, Raven Bright as Roger, Haley Robinson as Marty, and Kean Buffalo as Butta, with additional casting to be announced. The production also features lighting design by Jeremy Echols, with more of the creative and technical team to be revealed soon.
Crystle Lightning, an award-winning actress and director from the Enoch Cree Nation, brings decades of experience to the stage. Her credits include Outlander, Trickster, The Good Doctor, Fancy Dance (opposite Lily Gladstone), and Spirit Rangers. She is currently recurring on Ghosts (CBS) and is set to co-direct her first feature film alongside her mother, acclaimed filmmaker Georgina Lightning. Henry Cloud Andrade, a Wixárika creative force, is a multifaceted artist — actor (Yellowstone, Hey Viktor), best-selling author and illustrator (Indigenous Legends, Moosebumpz), award-winning musician (LightningCloud), and a former world record holder for the longest freestyle rap.
Opening night is slated for Thursday, June 19th, and tickets are available now at www.beargreaselive.com and QikTix.com.