Grease

Warmly welcomed by the Footlights Chair, Janet Green, and ushered quickly to my seat via the raffle (a must at shows these days - thank you Cath Marsden for removing money from me!), I sensed a real air of anticipation for a well loved and oft performed show, with the audience abuzz and in a happy mood. And what a treat we were in store for. I have had the privilege of reporting on Footlights (the youth section of Eastleigh Operatic and Musical Society) shows before and all have been of the highest quality. This was to be no exception.

A good looking, 1950s' themed set filled the stage and was well lit by Martin Whittaker and his team, adding well to the overall feel. The cast were well rehearsed with great choreography, confident in their moves and clear and concise in their diction, (very well aided by Pob Wyeth and the sound team). I could hear all the lines, very few mumbled and I was able to keep up with the story well. The singing was of a good standard with the harmonies coming through well, a credit to Matt Lemon (musical Director) who I am sure must be very pleased with the results of his obvious hard work. The band were an integral part of the staging and although small in number overcame this and produced a great sound.

All the principals, Alex Knott as Sandy, and Henry Cox as Danny, delivered well and were ably abetted by the supporting cast (too many to mention, but they know who they are!). However, If I may, Luke Devlin as Roger, Annabel Clark as Rizzo were excellent in their respective roles, bringing good timing, humour and attitude to their performances. I would also like to mention Peter Lavery here too - his portrait as Vince Fontaine, and the Teen angel was full of character, comic timing and a will to engage the audience. Above all else though the show went at a good pace, from an enthusiastic cast full of energy and vigour, and that they were clearly enjoying themselves was quite evident. Well done Footlights, another great show. 

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