CHOREOGRAPHERS: JASMINE NIZAL & SOPHIA WOODBURY
What work is involved in choreographing a school production of this kind?
Jasmine: Sophia and I started by researching Grease – the movie and other versions, analysing the songs, and studying the characters. The actual choreographing was tough in the beginning – we were overwhelmed by the number of dances and the short amount of time to create them. To ease the workload, we split each song into two and choreographed one part each; this system helped tremendously thanks to our great chemistry. I wouldn’t want to do this project with anyone else!
Sophia: The wonderful directors Mr Toong and Ms Lo would meet with us to discuss our vision and offer guidance and assistance. Then Jazzie and I would figure out the dances. Sometimes, we choreographed in advance; other times, we worked it out at rehearsals. It took a while to find a balance with the IB, other extracurriculars and leadership roles – I’m so grateful to have had Jazzie’s support the entire way.
What was your favourite piece of choreography from the show?
Jasmine: Aside from “Beauty School Dropout”, I have to say “Greased Lightnin’” took my breath away. The leather jackets and the car Mr Barnes built really elevated the whole number.
Sophia: Each piece brought something unique to the table, but “Greased Lightnin’”, “Beauty School Dropout” and “Born to Hand Jive” stood out for me. They were high energy, and the cast’s chemistry brought the songs to life.
How did the show go? Were you involved onstage at all?
Jasmine: All four shows were extremely successful – they wowed me every time. Mr Toong invited Sophia and me to be a part of “Beauty School Dropout”, and being in the actual production made the entire experience more memorable.
Sophia: The show was amazing! Watching everyone on stage brought tears to my eyes. Aside from being a Teen Angel in “Beauty School Dropout”, I did a small lyrical dance behind Isabella – the amazing Sandy – in “Hopelessly Devoted To You”.
What’s your own dance background?
Jasmine: Dance has always been a passion but I didn’t take it seriously until a year ago. Currently, I am a hip-hop dancer at Academy of Dance – we’ve competed in professional competitions in Hong Kong and Thailand. I also danced for the Youth Arts Foundation in the annual Arts In the Park show.
Sophia: I started weekly contemporary dance classes at age 10, which really unlocked my love for dance. I began competing with my studio a few years ago in Jazz and Lyrical, and I performed in the HK Players’ 2019 and 2021 Pantos, and played Killer Queen in the school production in 2022. I also co-directed a small play last year, which taught me a lot about theatre as a whole.
What would be your ideal show to choreograph a dance in?
Jasmine: High School Musical and Mean Girls – I love the 90s and noughties eras, and I think it would be a fun challenge tackling these iconic shows.
Sophia: Mamma Mia – I love all the songs and how involved the chorus is – and the style is right up my alley!