Grease is back in Blackpool, and it’s bringing all the nostalgic charm and infectious energy that fans adore. This co-production between Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand Theatre delivers a fresh take on the classic, blending dynamic performances with a live on-stage band to create an immersive experience.
From the very first announcement the audience were transported back to the 1950s world of Rydell High. The cast’s enthusiasm is obvious from their smiles and energy as they take the stage, with standout performances that breathe new life into beloved characters. Blythe Jandoo shines as Sandy, showcasing the character’s innocence throughout the show, delivering a beautiful and heartfelt rendition of “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” while Alexander Service’s portrayal of Danny Zuko captures the character’s cool demeanour and inner conflict with finesse and style, he really brought the character to life in his own wonderful way and gave audiences a powerful rendition of ‘Sandy’. Fiona Wood’s portrayal of Rizzo adds depth to a much loved character, showcasing both sass and vulnerability as well as stunning vocal talent. The cast really had the audience enthralled and each actor brought a new perspective to their character, with well received praise.
The choreography, is both intricate and exhilarating, perfectly complementing the show’s iconic numbers. The decision to rearrange the song sequence may come as quite a shock to many avid fans, however it offers a fresh perspective, keeping the audience engaged and pleasantly surprised.
One of the production’s unique features is its actor-musician format, allowing the cast to showcase their musical talents live on stage. This approach adds an extra layer of authenticity and energy to the performance. It showcases each individual’s multiple talents that they can perform as their character, play and sing live onstage and never miss a beat. It was a wonderful new perspective and a real treat to see.
While the show hits many high notes, there are moments where the pacing feels slightly rushed, some transitions could be smoother, and the sound could be worked on, as sometimes mics didn’t come on at the right time and the instruments seemed too loud compared to the mics. However, these minor issues don’t detract from the overall enjoyment.
The finale is a joyous celebration, with the audience eagerly joining in for the encore. It’s a testament to the production’s ability to connect with viewers of all ages, leaving everyone humming the tunes long after the curtain falls.
This production of Grease is a delightful revival that captures the spirit of the original while introducing fresh elements to keep it exciting. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the story, this production promises a night of fun, music, and heartfelt performances.
Grease the Musical is continuing its run at the Blackpool Grand Theatre until 14th June. Tickets can be found at Grease The Musical – Blackpool Grand Theatre
Reviewer: Abigail Pendlebury
Reviewed: 5th June 2025
North West End UK Rating: