REVIEW - GREASE THE MUSICAL | THE GRAND THEATRE BLACKPOOL | 05/06/2025

Grease The Musical at Blackpool Grand Theatre – A Fresh Spin on a Timeless Classic

Grease is the word—and it’s back in Blackpool with a fresh new energy that’s lighting up the Grand Theatre this summer. First debuting on Broadway in 1972 and made legendary by the 1978 film, Grease has remained a global favourite for generations. This latest version, at Blackpool Grand Theatre, is a collaboration with Pitlochry Festival Theatre and directed by Sam Hardie. It brings a reimagined take that’s full of charm, vitality, and good old-fashioned rock ‘n’ roll. With on-stage instruments, clever design, and infectious enthusiasm, it’s a show that both honours and reinvents the classic.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1950s Americana, Grease transports audiences to Rydell High, where summer romance, friendship, and self-discovery collide in a whirlwind of teenage emotions. The musical follows Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski, whose idyllic summer love faces the realities of high school life when they unexpectedly reunite. Their journey explores the challenges of fitting in, peer pressure, and the desire to be accepted—both by others and themselves.

Beyond the central love story, the production shines a spotlight on a colourful cast of characters each navigating their own teenage dramas. Rizzo, the sharp-witted leader of the Pink Ladies, grapples with loyalty and vulnerability beneath her tough exterior. Frenchy dreams of glamour beyond high school, while Kenickie and Doody bring a boisterous energy with their youthful antics and aspirations. The friends’ interactions, rivalries, and camaraderie form a lively tapestry of youthful rebellion and heart.

This version rearranges some musical numbers for a refreshing narrative flow, giving familiar songs a new context and highlighting the emotional arcs of the characters in unexpected ways. The themes of identity, belonging, and first love remain as relatable today as ever, with plenty of humour, heart, and nostalgia woven throughout. Whether it’s the excitement of the school dance, the thrills of Greased Lightning, or the bittersweet moments of growing up, the story invites audiences to step into the shoes of a generation defined by its music and spirit

Nick Trueman’s set design is simple but versatile, allowing for swift transitions between high school bleachers, diners, dance floors and garages. From the cheeky transformation of lockers into the burger palace dinner to the riotous arrival of Greased Lightning, the stage is always buzzing with activity. Lighting designer Rory Beaton enhances the energy, particularly during the high-octane group numbers and the glittering hand-jive dance-off, with just the right balance of dazzle and drama.

What truly sets this Blackpool production of Grease The Musical apart is its actor-musician format. The cast doesn’t just sing and dance—they play live music throughout the show, creating an immersive and musically rich experience. From guitar solos to saxophone riffs, it adds an extra layer of excitement and shows off the ensemble’s remarkable talent. Costumes are timelessly retro, evoking the style of the era while allowing for freedom of movement and a sense of youthful vibrancy.

The cast are fantastic. Blythe Jandoo brings warmth, strength and vulnerability to Sandy, delivering a heartfelt performance that peaks with a stirring rendition of "Hopelessly Devoted to You". Alexander Service brings depth to Danny, balancing swagger with genuine emotion. His rendition of "Sandy" raw, longing, and heartfelt—is a standout moment that reveals the vulnerability beneath the cool exterior.

The supporting cast is where the energy truly soars. Fiona Wood is sensational as Rizzo, delivering a show-stopping "There Are Worse Things I Could Do" with poise and emotion. April Nerissa Hudson makes a delightfully ditsy Frenchy, while Leah Jamieson’s Jan is an endearing scene-stealer with comic timing and musical flair. David Rankine as Doody balances humour and charm while performing drums live onstage—a true highlight.

The ensemble as a whole is tight, energetic and clearly having the time of their lives. Their chemistry radiates from the stage, particularly during the big group numbers where voices, instruments, and movement come together seamlessly.

This new production of Grease The Musical in Blackpool is a feel-good, foot-tapping triumph. With a talented cast of actor-musicians, inventive staging and all the infectious joy you’d expect from one of musical theatre’s most enduring shows, it’s a night of pure entertainment. Whether you know the lyrics by heart or you’re discovering the show for the first time, Grease The Musical at Blackpool Grand Theatre will have you clapping along, dancing in your seat, and grinning from ear to ear.

Grease is still the word—and this fresh new take proves it’s got plenty of life left in it. A toe-tapping, heart-thumping night at the theatre that’s simply electrifying.

Grease The Musical is at The Grand Theatre, Blackpool until Saturday 14th June 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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Grease The Musical will be at Pitlochry Festival Theatre from 18th June - 27th September 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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Photo Credit - dannywithacamera

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.