Oxford High School Theatre has a reputation for transforming the stage into something extraordinary, and the recent production of Grease was no exception.
From high-energy choreography to live music, Grease highlighted the skill and dedication of Oxford High School’s theatre program. The production also reflected a spirit of collaboration that extended beyond the theatre classroom—drawing on expertise from other programs on campus and support from community partners who helped make the show possible.
Bringing Grease to life required a blend of creativity and technical innovation. Career and Technical Education engineering students used computer numerical control (CNC) machining, a computer-guided process that precisely cuts and shapes materials to assist in building props, signage, and set pieces. This collaboration between engineering and theatre has become a defining feature of Oxford’s theatre program production process, giving students real world experience while simultaneously ensuring each show is built with care and craftsmanship.
In total, nearly 100 students participated in Grease through acting, crew, and theatre production classes. Whether performing under the spotlight or working backstage, students gained valuable skills in leadership, time management, problem-solving, and teamwork —lessons and life skills that will serve them well beyond Oxford High School.
Behind the scenes, teachers across Oxford High School also played a key role in ensuring the production’s success. Theatre Director John Davenport oversaw all aspects of the show’s design and direction, guiding students through every step of the creative process. Fine Arts teacher Jordan Caviezel led the operation of technical elements such as lighting and audio, while Choir Director Dr. Thomas Ardrey coordinated live musicians from the University of Mississippi and the local community. Their leadership—along with other contributions from teachers who assisted with photography and playbill design—gave the show a professional presentation.
Those lessons extend beyond the classroom and stage, shaping a program built on collaboration and shared purpose. Over the past 25 years, Davenport has guided more than 130 productions—each one strengthened by the collective effort of students, staff, and community members working together to bring performances to life.
“The phrase, ‘It takes a village’ is more than just a proverb or saying in regard to child-rearing. I use it a lot with my students to demonstrate all of the hands involved in making a singular production happen. I am lucky enough, at this point in my career, that I can stand high enough to see all the hands from the entire ‘village’—the district and the community—working together to make it possible. And it is profound. And it is all for the students. I can only hope that someday they, too, will be able to see how fortunate they were to have such support,” Davenport said.
Additionally, local businesses and community members generously contributed time, resources, and expertise to help make the production possible.
Special thanks to:
- Proud Larry’s, serving as the presenting sponsor and providing generous support for the theatre program.
- Canon Motors, for donating tires used in the unforgettable “Greased Lightnin’” scene.
- Shivers Towing, for assisting with the transportation of the vintage car featured in the performance.
- Choreographer Carrie White, for sharing her time and talent in guiding students through the show’s dance sequences.
That culture of collaboration has long defined the Oxford School District. For decades, students have benefited from the continued support of teachers, families, and community partners who invest their time and talents in programs like theatre. Their commitment ensures that Oxford students have the opportunity to learn, create, and shine—both on stage and beyond it.
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