It’s automatic, It’s systematic, It’s hydromatic Why It’s greased lightnin.

Dazzling generations of fans with the high school romance of Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski. The story of Grease is one that has truly stood the test of time. And now this feel good, show stopper musical has hit Melbourne shores.

This new adaption produced by John Frost celebrates everything there is to love about Grease, from the 1950s flair to the exhilarating soundtrack we all know and love. This timeless musical will be sure to have you hand jiving down the isles.

The extensive set design by James Brownie is made up of two big grandstands and some high-reaching wall panels, a simple yet effective set up but one that is utilised to represent multiple locations. With that though, one thing I have to mention that didn’t work so well is that many of the scene changes are done by stage crew in full view of the audience and several of the set pieces take a long time to fall into place. This leads to the audience (myself included) being distracted at the start and or end of scenes and musical numbers.

Costume/ wig designs also by James Brownie are more successful – the costumes are eye popping, brightly coloured and very era believable and the wigs look amazing.

The chewing gum holding this all together though is the fabulous band led by Dave Skelton that drive the music along and it’s impossible not to tap your feet or dance in your seat. The songs truly define the musical.

The cast put together for this production are electrifying to say the least… All full of energy, In fine voice and actually look like teenagers and their respective parts. Some highlights for me were Annelise Hall perfectly captures the innocence of new girl Sandy. And her take on the beloved song “Hopelessly Devoted to You” is magical. Keanu Gonzalez as Kenickie is constantly magnetic and in fine voice. You can clearly tell he loves every minute of his devilish role particularly in the number “Greased Lightnin” Fast rising star Brianna Bishop shines again as flirty Marty, nailing every laugh and leaving a lasting impression with the number “Freddy, My Love” Mackenzie Dunn’s Rizzo is as equally impressive and brings the house down in “There are Worse Things I Could Do” The casting of music legend Marcia Hines as Teen Angel plays off brilliantly in “Beauty School Dropout”

If you’re looking for something to liven up your summer nights then Grease the musical sure won’t disappoint.

Grease the musical now plays at Her Majesty’s Theatre Melbourne until march 10th 2024 For Tickets or more information head to greasemusical.com.au

x Steph

Photos by Jeff Busby