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Broadway Revue 2
“Hopelessly Devoted to Grease”
By: Harlee Gallo
Senior, Gordon Heights Regional H.S., Burlington, NJ
TeenNewsNet Broadway Critic
Since its debut in February of 1972, the show “Grease,” created by Warren Casey and Jim Jacobs, has become one of the most successful mainstream musicals ever to hit the Broadway stage. The popular trend continues with the revival of “Grease” on Broadway that debuted in August of 2007 at the Brooke Atkinson Theater. In production for a year now, the “Grease” cast still takes the stage with enthusiasm and energy that captivates the audience from start to finish. Set in the 1950’s, the popular storyline revolves around the life of two high school students, the good girl, Sandy Dumbrowski, and the Rock and Roller, Danny Zuko. Sandy and Danny’s cultural differences are shown throughout the show through infectious songs sung by the entire “Grease” cast. Showstoppers include favorites such as “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightnin,” and “You’re the One That I Want.” They were all performed with choreography that was very fun to watch, along with strong and astonishing vocals from the characters, with exceptional falsettos from the male performers.
The highlight of the show was the song “Beauty School Dropout,” performed by the Fifth Season winner of “American Idol,” Taylor Hicks, playing the role of the Teen Angel. Hicks stole the show by adding his sense of style, funk and soul to the character.
Having soul and flair by using the harmonica, Hicks even made the scene humorous and enjoyable to watch, and boosted “Beauty School Dropout,” to new heights. With undeniable stage presence, a soothing voice and unique sense of style it would be a shame to miss Hicks display of tremendous talent.Along with Hicks, the rest of the “Grease” cast gave stellar performances. The majority of the cast all made their Broadway debut in “Grease,” and is not taking the opportunity to perform on Broadway for granted. Bringing freshness to the stage, the cast did well adapting to the characters of high school students. Each actor is perfect in portraying their character, using their unique emotion, facial features, comedy and depth for the roles. Standout performances included Kirsten Wyatt, for her hilarious and spontaneous role of Frenchy with a corky personality and gleaming stage presence. Newcomer Janine DiVita played the role of Rizzo and had a knockout performance, singing “There Are Worse Things I Could Do.”Derek Keeling was a phenomenal Danny, who was surprisingly only the runner up to the TV sitcom “Grease: You’re the One that I Want.” Keeling had a strong stage voice and was a very comical Danny Zuko, compared to John Travolta’s portrayal of him in the 1978 movie.
Keeling’s co-star, Ashley Spencer had a beautiful first soprano voice and was very connected to the part portraying a sincere Sandy. Along with the characters, the scenery and costumes made the audience more attentive. The scenery and costumes were colorful, vivid, and bold, and fine detailed displaying a perfect replica of the 1950’s for the “Grease” cast to act with.
As a fast paced musical, “Grease” is undeniably comical and entertaining, which can be enjoyable for an audience of any age. The energy of the cast and catchy tunes made the audience want to clap along and dance in their seat, feeling like you are a part of the show. Without doubt Grease is one of the funniest and most entertaining shows on Broadway. It should be on top of anyone’s list that enjoys comedy, amazing singing and dancing, and energetic performances. If you have not yet seen this astonishing show, I advise that you become a part of the “Grease” phenomenon that has swept the nation since the 1970’s.
