2 out of 5 stars

If you judge “Bear Grease” by its thought-provoking concept alone – reimagining the ‘50s-themed musical “Grease” through an indigenous people’s lens – the show is a success. Unfortunately, good intentions don’t necessarily make for good theater. “Bear Grease” is often a muddled mess, layering on one too many ideas, plot lines and other elements, from a four-song prologue to animation videos. The show is strongest when it keeps to its core concept and delivers song and dance numbers with a distinct indigenous approach. The cast is also well-intentioned but slightly amateurish. Still, Bryce Morin and Melody McArthur make an appealing central couple. — Charles Passy

At St. Luke’s Theatre; beargreaselive.com/nyc. (Review date: June 20, 2025)