Grease

It is always a challenge to direct a show that is as familiar as Grease with audiences having expectations that the show will be like the film. The directors had kept close to the film in their style and costuming but had added their own touches. The dialogue was clear, and the cast maintained their American accents with good diction and volume throughout. They had recognisable characters, but in some cases, developing more light and shade in their characterisation would have brought more depth to their performances. The cast though worked well together and had developed some nice relationships in their pairings.

The tiered stage was used effectively with good attention to detail in the styling of the 50’s and some recognisable features from the film. The centre section of the staging when removed revealed the car Greased Lightening which was used to good effect. The cast sang with confidence, and there were some lovely harmonies in “Magic Changes” and “Rock and Roll Party”. The group choreography routines were effective, making use of simple repeated patterns with some good punchy arm movements. The Greased Lightening routine was great fun and full of energy, making good use of the car in the routine and the additional girl Greasers.

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