Grease Lightnin' will strike Blackpool Grand this Summer!

An electrifying new co-production of Grease The Musical will rock ‘n’ roll into Blackpool Grand Theatre this June…

Buckle up for a high-octane trip back to Rydell High as Blackpool Grand Theatre rolls out the pink carpet for a sizzling new co-production of GREASE THE MUSICAL from Wednesday 4 June to Saturday 14 June!

This all-new, turbo-charged musical spectacular is set to be the hottest ticket in town.

It’s The One That You Want this Summer!

This exciting new co-production from Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand perfectly captures the idealism of the 1950s and its rock ‘n’ roll rebellion dreams and desires, with plenty of iconic songs, high-energy dance routines and cool costumes along the way.  Go Greased Lightnin’ and follow the whirlwind romance between sweet new girl Sandy Dumbrowski and popular cool guy Danny Zuko who find their summer lovin’ challenged by the pressures of teenage life at Rydell High School.

Grease The Musical will star a vibrant cast of actor musicians (to be announced) that will perfectly capture the essence of teenage exuberance, rebellion and young love, to tell this thrilling new version of the timeless classic with grit and verve.

But how else will this sensational new take on a beloved classic bring back the feelgood Fifties?

We caught up with Grease The Musical Choreographer Kally Lloyd-Jones and Costume Designer Julie Carlin to ask them five quick questions about all the show-stopping dance numbers and to get the inside scoop on bringing Rydell High’s wardrobe back to life!

Kally Lloyd-Jones – Grease Choreographer

1.Grease The Musical is known for its high-energy choreography and classic rock ’n’ roll numbers. What creative opportunities and challenges have you encountered while planning this exciting new co-production?

‘Firstly, I want to say that it’s so much fun working on this show.  The music so completely wants to be danced to and that’s very infectious. I suppose I see the challenges and opportunities as the same thing – it’s about how best to use the space and the set, and working with the actor musicians in a way that really adds to the excitement and youthfulness of the show. Also, how to tap into the recognition of Grease while still adding something fresh.’

2. How have you approached blending the classic 1950s dance styles with fresh, innovative choreography to make this production of Grease stand out?

‘Following the lead of our director Sam Hardie, I really want to bring a sense of movement and momentum to the choreography to underpin the idea that these young people are figuring themselves out as they move towards adulthood.  I have tried to reference some of the iconic moments and to really showcase both the playfulness and individuality of the characters, as well as their sense of being part of a tribe.’

3. How will you ensure the cast maintain their stamina and precision throughout the run with such demanding choreography?

‘My experience is that these gifted performers are very aware of their own capacities and how they need to look after their individual needs. Doing the show is the best way to maintain stamina because the body learns to pace itself and where to find moments of rest and when to pull out the stops.  But of course, they will have daily warm-ups and notes, and the dance captain will keep a close eye on the precision to make sure the show always looks its best.’

4. Have you incorporated any regional or personal influences into the choreography to give this production a unique twist?

‘There are no regional influences as such, but I guess my personal influences are there consciously or not because I bring myself to the process.  My own influences are very diverse, and I think you will see that while still believing you are immersed in the 1950s.’

5. What moments in the show are you most excited for audiences to see from a choreography perspective, and why?

‘Ooh, that’s a difficult one! There are so many great numbers and a rich range of styles.  I think in this show, the way the story, live music and choreography blend is really powerful.  There is such an amazing energy that comes with this kind of integration of acting, music and dance.  So, I think audiences will all find their own favourite moments.’

Julie Carlin - Costume Designer

1. How are you balancing the iconic 1950s style with fresh, unique costume elements to make this co-production stand out from previous versions of Grease?

‘Some audience members will, of course, be expecting to see certain iconic costumes from the film. But any new production will also generate new ideas and so the costumes for Grease will combine exciting new ideas and concepts with more traditional outfits. I am really looking forward to bringing a bit of sparkle and lots of fun to this production.’

2. Have there been any particular challenges in designing costumes that need to transition seamlessly between high-energy dance numbers and dramatic moments?

‘I am working closely with the director and choreographer to talk over any transitions and challenges of the show. All costumes need to be functional and allow the actors to perform while following the artistic vision and pleasing to the audience.’

3. Have you taken inspiration from any specific subcultures or fashion trends of the 1950s to highlight different characters’ personalities?

‘In my research, I looked at American film stars of the time, such as Marlon Brando, Elvis and James Dean. Brigitte Bardo and Marylin were a big influence too for characters such as Marty, who I imagined flicking through movie magazines and trying to imitate the stars looks of the time.’

4. Since this is a co-production between two theatres, how did that collaboration influence the design process and choices for the costumes?

‘The two different venues have very different demographics, and managing the expectations of each venue is a challenge, but I know everyone who comes to see this new production of Grease will have the same wonderful experience from a truly enjoyable theatre visit.’

5. If you could choose one costume from the show that best represents the spirit of this production, which one would it be and why?

‘It has to be the Pink Lady jackets of course! These are such an iconic symbol of the show that everyone recognises.’

Whether you’re a Beauty School Dropout or were Born to Hand Jive, this spectacular new production of Grease The Musical will have you singing, dancing, and Hopelessly Devoted from the very first note…

Tickets are selling faster than a drag race at Thunder Road, so don’t miss out! See you at Rydell High this Summer!

Grease The Musical Book, Music, and Lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. Grease, Hopelessly Devoted to You, Sandy and You’re The One That I Want used by arrangement with Robert Stigwood.

Grease The Musical is presented through special arrangement with, and all authorised performance materials are supplied by, Theatrical Rights Worldwide (TRW) www.theatricalrights.co.uk

Grease The Musical is a Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand Theatre co-production and is at Blackpool Grand Theatre from Wednesday 4 June to Saturday 14 April with matinee and evening performances. Recommended for ages 12+

Audio Described performance on Saturday 14 June at 2.30pm.

Tickets from £15 with School and Group rates available

Please call the Grand Theatre Box Office on 01253 290190 or visit www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk for full listings, bookings and further information.

LISTINGS

Grease The Musical – Wed 4 Jun to Sat 14 Jun at 7.30pm

Thu & Sat matinees at 2.30pm

Audio Described – Sat 14 Jun at 2.30pm

Grand Theatre, 33 Church Street, Blackpool FY1 1HT

Box Office 01253 290 190

blackpoolgrand.co.uk

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