Danny Bayne On…Grease
The hit musical Grease may have left the Piccadilly Theatre in the West End but fans of the show now have the chance to catch the show on tour. Whilst Liverpool audiences can see former X Factor stars Ray Quinn (Danny Zuko) and Rhydian (as Teen Angel), Manchester will see Grease is the Word winner Danny Bayne as T-Bird Danny Zuko. We caught up with him before the show opens later next month.
What do you like about Danny Zuko?
The best thing about being Danny is that he’s cool and he gets the girl.
How do you manage to avoid impersonating John Travolta’s version and make him your own? Do you ever improvise?
It’s a great feeling play such an iconic role but I do try to avoid doing a Travolta performance and instead, try to create the character myself. However, there are some things that the audience kind of expect like the walk and the laugh.
What’s your favourite song in the show?
I love “Greased Lightnin’”, it rocks! But I’d have to say my favourite is “Sandy.”
The show relies heavily on great chemistry between Danny and Sandy. You have worked with many different co-stars in Grease. How do you keep the chemistry believable?
I have been so lucky that all the girls that have played Sandy to my Danny have become great mates during the various runs which is a fantastic help- we have a brilliant cast for this tour and we’re having the best time ever!
Why do you think the show and film remain audience favourites?
It’s a fun, feel-good and brilliant piece of entertainment from start to finish! Essentially, it’s a simple, romantic love story- with great songs, music and characters- that everyone loves and people of all ages can relate to and enjoy. It’s also timeless!
You toured with another hit show recently – Hairspray. How was that experience?
It was great fun playing a different character and the audiences loved the show.
Are there any other musicals you have seen that you long to be in?
Yes, I’ve always wanted to be in Saturday Night Fever and Wicked.
Grease Is the Word provided you with great exposure. What have you learned from the experience?
I have gained so much personal confidence since winning the competition and every day is an education in some aspect of the business.
What are your plans once you hang up Danny’s Blue Suede shoes?
Danny wears black boots and when they come off for the last time I hope that i will be able to step into a different pair of shoes and have as much fun as I have had in his.
Danny Bayne was speaking to Glenn Meads.
Grease is at the Palace Theatre, Manchester from 26 September – 8 October.
