Grease

This production was one of the most lively, exuberant, energetic, and infectious shows I have seen for a long time. With Sandra Laidler taking on both the Director and Choreographer roles, the whole cast must have put in many weeks of hard work to achieve the high standards demonstrated.  There was nothing simple about this production. Dance numbers were both complex and captivating, and the transitions from scene to scene appeared to be effortless.  The movements were supported by excellent scenery (courtesy of Scenic Projects) and superb costumes (Paradox Costumes and Roxy Theatre Costumes)

This musical is based in the 1950s and is set around Rydell High School and its tales of young people as T.Birds and Pink Ladies.  The show opened with much older pupils reminiscing, then segued neatly into the re-union scene with the full cast singing “Grease is the Word”, filling the theatre with magnificent sound.  All the original numbers were there, all delivered with panache and style, with the performers instilling their roles with their own characteristics whilst making the numbers recognisable.  Lauren Gordon, as Sandy, and Joshua Bamling, as Danny, sang beautifully together in “You’re the One That I Want” and “Summer Nights” accompanied by Pink Ladies and T. Birds.  Nikki Robertson, as Jan, was extremely energetic, with Simon Pinkney, as Roger, singing “Mooning” together were great, with Simon ending the number appropriately!!  Other performers were all very good, particularly JoJo Hatfield, as Rizzo, Zoe Payne, as Frenchy, Laura Fulgenzi, as Patty and Leon Gill, as Teen Angel.  I especially enjoyed watching and listening to Leon when he was flown down towards the stage.

This was a Show that was so addictive to watch and listen to that the final curtain seemed to come in no time at all.  Everyone worked extremely hard – not forgetting the small eight piece orchestra under Michael Lamb who kept the music and action moving swiftly.  Congratulations to all concerned.

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