Grease (Tour - Sunderland)

Grease is the all singing and dancing, feel good factor, musical that has stood the test of time, with the instantly recognisable score which includes, “Summer Nights”, “Hopelessly Devoted To You”, “Greased Lightnin’” and “You’re The One That I Want”.

The story revolves around Danny and Sandy, who are both at Rydell High School, trying to pretend they are not attracted to each other. Until finally Sandy throws aside her “goodie two shoes” image to capture her man.

Unfortunately, as the actors playing Danny and Sandy were unavailable, the necessary cast changes resulted in the roles of Danny, Sandy, Kenickie, Sonny and Marty, all being performed by understudies. While all the performers were competent in their roles, there did seem to be some energy and drive missing. Luckily, Kate Somerset How, more than made up for a lot of this with her performance as Rizzo.

However, even though the role is relevantly small, and not a lead, this production of Grease belongs to Rhydian Roberts, as Teen Angel. The X-Factor finalist of 2007 has a stage presence way in excess of the rest of the cast.

While there is plenty to enjoy in this production of Grease, especially Rhydian, some of the sparkle seems to have gone, which I can only assume was down to the reshuffle of leading cast members.

- by Pam Dixon