Theatre Review: 'Grease, The Live Experience'

Transforming a car park at the NEC into Rydell High School is certainly not an easy endeavour, however, Secret Cinema successfully brought Grease to Birmingham with their live experience of the movie, which is running this summer. From the moment you arrive you are whisked away to 1959 – most attendees dressed for the occasion preparing to truly become Rydell students for the evening.

From the moment you arrive you are whisked away to 1959

Walking into Secret Cinema’s Rydell High was surreal. Within two minutes I had been told off by one of their teachers for wearing sunglasses inside the school. I was beckoned to choir practice where Mr Gabriel taught us iconic songs before allowing ‘students’ to ask him questions, to which he impressively answered in song. We followed Marty (member of the Pink Ladies, of course) over to the school gym where Vince Fontaine was hosting a lively ball and Cha Cha was showing off her spectacular moves on the dance floor. Complete with a live band and Pink Ladies whirling around, it really did feel like being an extra in the movie.

An outstanding performance of the iconic ‘Summer Nights’ allowed me to truly appreciate the perfect casting and the breath-taking talent of the actors; everything from their vocal talent to the wigs they wore was flawless and seemed like it had been pulled straight out of the movie. The set design further immersed one into the world of Grease; running through a replica funfair from the final scene with Vince Fontaine, to stealing a camera for the student rebellion – a wildly absurd and exciting venture.

The unique experiences you can have at this event is what makes it so special. Due to the sheer amount of elements to get involved with, you live what feels like your own Rydell storyline. While we watched an electric performance of ‘Greased Lightnin’’ at the auto shop, many were participating in Patty Simcox’s cheer practice, demonstrating how many different ways you can enjoy the event. There is no end to the immersive experience. Even when sitting on the bleachers with a drink, Pink Lady Jan sat by me and asked for advice on how to get a date to the dance. We then amusedly watched as Putzie and Doody competed for Jan’s affection right in front of us.

The dance-off was definitely a crowd-favourite moment which saw the actors further interacting with attendees and competing with them to be dance champions. There was a great atmosphere as everyone embraced the Grease spirit. Before the cast went on to perform ‘We’ll Always Be Together’, Rydell’s favourite music teacher Mr Gabriel reminded us to use the moves we learnt in choir practice.

There was a great atmosphere as everyone embraced the Grease spirit

As the sun was setting, everyone took their places for the screening of the movie. During iconic scenes and numbers, the actors owned the stage with performances that created a dazzling, multidimensional cinematic/theatrical experience. The attention to detail was unbelievable, whether you’re a die-hard Grease fan or watching the movie for the first time, you will be blown away by the way the performers replicate the film. During the carnival scene the actors even made their way to the funfair, sitting on the swings and queuing up for the ferris wheel with guests. Secret Cinema had taken us out of the NEC and transported us into Grease.

The ticket prices for this experience might put off potential attendees, especially those who think it is simply an overpriced viewing party of Grease, but after seeing the movie recreated with overwhelming accuracy, talent and vivacity, I applaud Secret Cinema and cannot recommend it enough. ‘Grease: The Live Experience’ is an event which allows you to escape into a magical world of 1950s theatrical fun and I encourage anyone who has the opportunity to attend.