Milton Keynes Theatre Review: Grease

The plot of Grease follows the summer romance of Sandy and Danny, which faces the ultimate test as they return to the social pressures of high school. In this version, the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the 1950s teen culture were brought to the forefront, making the narrative feel both authentic and thrilling.

Standout performances came from Hope Dawe as Sandy and Adam Davidson, who impressively covered the roles of Vince Fontaine and Teen Angel. Dawe’s portrayal of Sandy was both heartfelt and compelling, capturing the character's journey from innocence to self-discovery with nuance and grace and my goodness what a voice! Davidson, on the other hand, brought a magnetic charisma to his dual roles, particularly as Vince Fontaine, where his high-up, circular DJ deck set was a visual and thematic highlight. Other notable performances came from Alicia Belgarde as Frenchy and Ben Middleton who covered the role of Roger at this particular performance delivering us some absolutely stunning vocals during ‘Mooning’.

The set design was another star of the show. The innovative use of bleachers that broke apart and reassembled to form each scene added a dynamic and engaging element to the production. This creative approach allowed for seamless transitions and kept the audience eagerly anticipating the next transformation. The elevated position of Vince Fontaine’s home at the centre back of the stage added a unique visual depth and served as a clever focal point throughout the performance, sometimes being replaced by the Rydell High neon logo or clever projections. Another highlight was the use of the classic car, Greased Lightning during ‘Stranded at the Drive-in’ – The way projection combined with lights on the car to make it look like Danny was driving around town was brilliant.

Choreography played a pivotal role in this production, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The routines were fast, furious, and infused with an infectious energy that the entire cast delivered with remarkable precision and enthusiasm. Each dance number was a high-octane display of talent and dedication, leaving the audience in awe. There’s nothing like those classics ‘Greased Lightning’ and ‘Born to Hand jive’ to get the audience dancing in their seats.

In conclusion, this rendition of Grease was a high-energy, bold, and unforgettable experience. From standout performances by Hope Dawe and Adam Davidson to the innovative set design and electrifying choreography, it was a production that truly did justice to the timeless classic while adding its own unique flair. If you have the chance to see it, don't miss out on this exhilarating ride through the halls of Rydell High.