Grease

By Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Cecil Andrews College. Directed by Celeste Underhill. Cecil Andrews Performing Arts Theatre. Sep 14-17, 2017

Cecil Andrews College presented Grease (the schools version) in their performing arts centre. The students, who are part of the Specialist Performing Arts Program, performed with dedication and enthusiasm.

There was a great atmosphere at this production, with its wonderfully decorated foyer and warm and inviting front of house.

Director Celeste Underhill created a multilevel set that allowed for reasonably quick changes, facilitated by a student crew, that was simple and effective. Costumes were bright and true to era.

Alicia Witheridge was a sweet, likeable Sandy, who gave a lovely vocal performance. She worked well with Harrison Battersby as Danny Zuko, who had a confident bravado.

Caitlin Curtis gave Betty Rizzo a lovely attitude, while Corbin Marcum brought power to Kenicke and led an impressive ‘Greased Lightning’ number.

Alannah Leeder stood out as Patty Simcox in a very well rounded performance, with Joshua Hall providing great comic relief as Eugene.

Jan and Roger played by Stephanie Thompson (a lovely presence) and Kalib Gwilym, were a very cute couple, Rebecca Goodwin was a likeable Marty, Damien Houghton showed comic flair as Sonny, Alexander Smith’s Doody was true to the ‘Howdy Doody’ nickname of the character - an aspect rarely explored in this role, and Isabella Bullich-Western was a beautifully sympathetic Frenchy.

Some lovely work in the supporting roles. Rhianna Muir brought maturity to Miss Lynch, Sonya Goodchild was credible as Violet Fontaine, Kadence Tahena sang well as Johnny Casino, Hannah Barnett gave Cha Cha gusto and Sebastian Have a made a loveable Teen Angel.

A well-drilled ensemble provided solid support, executing Peter Fares’ choreography with energy and showcasing the work of musical director Melanie Fowler and vocal coach Peter Shanhun.

I would have liked to have seen stronger projection overall and some singing needs further development, but on the whole, this was a very enjoyable production.

Kimberley Shaw