Grease

Set in the 50’s, in the days before colour photography was commonplace, KYMT’s production of “Grease” begins with projections of a photo album of the cast in monochrome. The sequence ends with a group shot of the “Class of 59”, following on with a crossfade through the gauze to the class tiered on rostra as per the last photograph. A well-thought-out start to what proved to be a performance full of life and enthusiasm from the 60+ eleven to seventeen year olds comprising Kirkcaldy Youth Music Theatre.

We followed on with the singing of the Rydell High School Song, for which the audience didn’t require much coaxing to stand! and it was a full house, as the sign at the door to the theatre indicated.

Fortunately, the KYMT chorus had no need for augmentation with audience voices, as they showed here – and in every choral number which followed.

Individual performances were no less worthy of mention.  In particular Sandy played by Lauren Conroy, gave a lovely portrayal of the innocent, naïve girl, giving way to the makeover with attitude – thanks in part to the coaxing of the feisty Rizzo (Sophie Penman) both of whose solo numbers were a joy to listen to.

To the Burger Palace Boys :   Danny (Jacob Topen) and Sandy worked well together and interacted suitably with the rest of the company as required.  Kenickie (Connor Wallace) brought over the character of the Boys good-time-guy exceedingly well – a perfect match for the strong character of Rizzo. The minor-principals (although, hardly minor in Grease) all worked well in their own characterisations, which they maintained throughout the show. Scott Binnie gave a super performance as Eugene Florczyk gaining every laugh he deserved at every appearance.

This show was appropriately and well costumed, which, together with a very useable set – with many different levels and revolving trucks – all made for a production which flowed.

Congratulations also to the seven piece orchestra who remained constrained throughout – never drowning the singing at any time.

So KYMT, for my first visit to your shows, I see a Company that appears to bond well, has oodles of enthusiasm and has an obvious interest in maintaining high standards in all aspects of their production.  

Well done to all!!

 

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