Grease The Musical At Winter Gardens Blackpool Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Cath Joyce
The iconic musical Grease is currently touring the UK, and we had the pleasure of catching it last night during its stop at the world-famous Winter Gardens Blackpool.
From the moment the curtain rose, the audience was transported to the vibrant world of 1950s American high school life, complete with all the trials, tribulations, and thrills of teenage hood. The show kicked off with an electrifying rendition of “Grease Is The Word,” setting the tone for an evening brimming with energy and nostalgia.
Ben Middleton took on the role of Danny, perfectly embodying the slick, cool, and occasionally arrogant character we all know and love from the classic film. His chemistry with Hope Dawe, who made an exceptional professional debut as Sandy, was palpable. Their duets were a perfect blend of romance and tension, with Dawe’s standout performance of “Hopelessly Devoted to You” serving as one of the evening’s most memorable moments.
The choreography, unsurprisingly impeccable given Arlene Phillips’ involvement, was a visual treat. The hand jiving, twists, and high-energy dance numbers were flawlessly executed, with not a single misstep throughout the night. Watching the cast navigate these complex routines was a joy, and the enthusiasm they brought to each number was infectious.
The production made excellent use of the Winter Gardens’ expansive stage, seamlessly transitioning between various iconic locations like Rydell High, Marty’s bedroom, and the local burger bar. A special mention goes to Joe Gash, who portrayed local DJ Vince Fontaine. His elevated DJ booth and the clever use of lighting drew attention during scene changes, adding an extra layer of entertainment to the transitions.
The energy that defined the first half of the show continued to build in the second. The high school dance, in particular, offered the cast ample opportunity to showcase their talents, with Arlene Phillips’ choreography shining through once again.
While the car chase scene famously featured in the film was understandably omitted, Greased Lightning made another appearance, this time at the drive-in, with Danny delivering a heartfelt rendition of “Sandy.”
As the show reached its climax, Danny and Sandy’s transformation highlighted the underlying message of the story: that love sometimes requires change. When Danny, now a letterman, and Sandy, having embraced her inner greaser girl, reunited on the last day of school, sparks flew. The entire cast then came together for a show-stopping performance of “You’re the One That I Want,” sending the audience into raptures. The evening concluded with a high-energy “Grease Megamix,” which had the entire audience on their feet, singing and dancing along.
It would be unfair to single out any one actor as a favourite because Grease truly shines when the entire cast comes together for the big numbers. With a live band and over 20 performers on stage, this is a feel-good show that delivers on every level. Whether you’re a long time fan of the film or discovering the story for the very first time, I guarantee you’ll leave the theatre humming those iconic tunes!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £23.75
Grease is at Blackpool Opera House until Saturday 24th August 2024.
For more information or to book tickets visit: https://store.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk/webshop/webticket/eventlist?production=261 or call the box office on 0844 770 0593
Winter Gardens Blackpool, Church Street, Blackpool, FY11HU