BILLINGS, Mont. — On August 2, the stage was set for a unique cultural experience as “Bear Grease,” a Native adaptation of the classic musical “Grease,” brought together a vibrant blend of tradition and contemporary art. Sponsored by Western Native Voice, the event captivated attendees with its creative storytelling while also serving as a powerful reminder of the importance of civic engagement within Native communities.
The centerpiece of the evening was “Bear Grease,” a reimagined version of the classic musical “Grease,” infused with Native themes, music, and dance. This adaptation, which has been gaining traction in Native communities across the country, serves as a creative vehicle for cultural expression and pride. Many in the crowd, particularly Native attendees, were visibly excited and moved to see Native actors and performers taking the stage, representing their culture and stories in such a vibrant way. The presence of Native talent on stage resonated deeply with the audience, affirming the power of representation in the arts.
The cast of “Bear Grease” dedicated the performance to their elders who, in the 1950s, were sent to boarding schools. From 1869 to the 1960s, hundreds of thousands of Native American children were forced to attend Indian boarding schools in the United States, where they were often subjected to harsh conditions, including physical and emotional abuse (U.S. Department of the Interior, 2022). The dedication added a poignant layer to the performance, transforming the evening into a powerful tribute to resilience and cultural preservation.
Before the show began, Ronnie Jo Horse, Executive Director of Western Native Voice, took the stage to address the importance of the Native vote. “Our voices are powerful, and our votes can shape the future for our communities,” she said. “As we gather here to celebrate our culture and heritage, let’s also remember the significance of participating in the democratic process. Every vote is a step towards securing our rights and our future.”
Western Native Voice took the opportunity to engage attendees in the democratic process by having members of their field team present at the event. The team was available to assist with voter registration and to remind attendees of the importance of Native voices in the electoral process.
After the performance, a meet-and-greet session was held where fans had the opportunity to meet the cast, take photos, and share their appreciation. Native children and adults alike were excited to see themselves represented on stage, and the significance of this representation cannot be overstated. The ability to see their culture and stories reflected in such a public and vibrant way provided a powerful sense of pride and validation for many attendees.
As the sun set on the Bear Grease event, the message was clear: cultural pride and civic duty are inextricably linked. For Western Native Voice, this event was not just about celebrating heritage but about empowering a community to take its rightful place in the democratic process.
In an era where Native voices are increasingly asserting their presence in cultural and political arenas, the Bear Grease event stands as a powerful example of how tradition and activism can come together to forge a stronger, more engaged community.