Grease Review

Liverpool Empire Theatre – until 20th November 2021

Review by Carla Whittaker

4****

The smash hit Grease the Musical is playing to sell-out crowds at the Liverpool Empire Theatre until 20th November 2021. I was exceptionally lucky to be able to get a ticket to see Grease the Musical at the Empire as it had been on my ‘to see’ list for some time, and what better place to see it than at the ever so popular Liverpool Empire Theatre, which is renowned for its traditional décor, intimate seating, and hospitality. I must first acknowledge the staff. I attended the Liverpool Empire to watch Grease the Musical with my friend, who has a visual impairment, and has a guide dog. The staff were exceptionally supportive and attentive and even offered to take care of the guide dog whilst the show was on!

Grease the Musical is a musical theatre classic which draws people back time and time again. The scene is set in Rydell High School, in the late 1950’s which tells the story of Sandy Dumbrowski [Ellie Kingdon] and heart-throb Danny Zuko [Dan Partridge] who find themselves thrown together unexpectedly for their final year of school after a summer romance.  Their chemistry was electric! The story then follows them and their friends as they navigate peer pressure, love, politics and early rock and roll. Entwined within the production are the true iconic Grease hits classics such as Summer Loving, Greased Lightning and You’re the One I want breathed new life into the production. The music was accompanied by amazing strong vocals, particularly from Sandy who has such a beautiful, powerful voice which was impeccable. The cast did an amazing job of getting the audience upon on their feet; dancing, clapping and of course singing!  The dancing choreographed by former Strictly Judge Arlene Phillip’s is energetic, precise and really showcase the casts impressive accomplished move sets. The backdrop for the production was magnificent with frequent backdrop changes. Credit should be given to the costume and props department as this was absolutely fabulous.  Although, his part in the first half was limited, Peter Andre as DJ Vince Fontaine and Teen Angel stole the show for me, I can hardly believe Grease is the first time Peter has performed in musical theatre.  Peter absolutely oozes confidence, and gives his absolute all to the show, with a leopard print tux, hip thrusts and a great voice. The audience loved him!

If you want to rewind the years back to an era of the birth of rock and roll, and looking for a high energy show get yourself to see the fantastic Grease the Musical playing at the Liverpool Empire Theatre until the 20th November 2021 and will continue touring. You won’t be disappointed!