Grease

As expected a dynamic and energetic presentation.

The set designed by Glenn Hewitt and Dave Watson always dominates as one enters the auditorium, and again we were not disappointed by this ‘juke box’ style. And all those youngsters in that dynamic crew worked so hard and with precision for the changes. And that car! Congratulations to those who adapted to create this special ‘Grease Lightning’.

Directors Lucy Dalgleish and Dave Watson worked their magic again in the casting and presentation and keeping in period, and Choreographer Zoe Broadshaw and her assistants worked the cast into the ground with those routines filled with energy and precision and outstanding timimg. And once again Dave Cowie worked his band to a frenzy in partnership with Musical Director Helen Curson who had all the notes on stage.

A huge cast with this school production and offering an opportunity to many new first-timers on stage as ‘leavers’ each year give a space to encourage others to try and to give confidence and discover talent. The big ensemble numbers really dynamic and filled with energy and enthusiasm in vocals and in movement and generating a big feel for the power of youth and the future.

The boy gang very strong in casting (they obviously enjoyed their roles), great vocals, and amazing dance skills not expected in teenagers, possibly outplayed the female side of the casting. Particularly strong Thomas Wilson-Gotobed (who must have grown a foot since last seen elsewhere) as Danny with his vocals and as for the dance skills quite exciting. Played well with his fellow gang members, Harry Lloyd of Kenickie a strong friend and contender for applause, Doody from Jacob Edwards, and Sonny from Zak Barham, and  Eugene of Sonny Sistern all good in the mix. Roger (Ty Stevenson) strong with character and worked so well with Jan from Lauren Jarvis (a fun couple throughout).

In the ‘pinks’ some good vocals from the girls led by Grace Newton as Marty, and Liberty McCrohon as Frenchy (liked her character study and nice vocals), also Lauren Jarvis. As the dominant rebel, Amy Leeks as Rizzo drew all eyes as she developed her character and the dancing, not a terribly nice person in the gang. And definitely a voice to listen for, Amber Atkins as Sandy had all the notes and the projection, obviously overwhelmed by life in the pink gang, she gave a nice characterisation and won through, and gained Danny.

Other polished performances with energy from the other characters: Patty from Kaitlyn Hinde, Evie Cook as Miss Lynch, Joe White as Vince Fontaine, the Radio Singer Izzy Girling, and Reuben Elvin as Johnny Casino.

But really in a production from this group, it is the overall enthusiasm, commitment, and energy to every part of the show with the singing and dancing at full throttle that takes over with atmosphere and enjoyment for all to give a special feel to this theatre and being there in person.

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