GREASE
(1987)
After a number of attempts to secure the performing rights to this musical, SSHS finally succeeded in doing so. Grease has rapidly become one of the most popular musicals performed by amateur groups as well as undergoing several professional revivals since its debut in 1972. The movie version also is one of the most popular film musicals. The popular songs, storyline and characters make the show a highly entertaining trip down memory lane to the 1950’s and early 60’s. I have many memories of this show...the excitement when we obtained the performing rights, the famous car ‘Greased Lightning’, the fun at the rehearsals, and the music score with all those 50’s styled tunes.
For our show, a group of local musicians volunteered to provide the ‘greaser band’ accompaniment. I have since done the show three more times as it easily one of my favourites.
One of my many memories of this production came as a result of the first time the car “Greased Lightning” appeared on stage in a rehearsal. I was “fortunate” enough to see the terrified expression on our Music Director’s face as the car hurtled across the stage, seemingly out of control, heading for the orchestra pit only to stop its forward progress literally inches from the pit edge. I would have really like to have had a camera to record the expression on Miss Gomersall’s face! I think that traumatic experience brought her decision to retire much closer!
