GREASE is the word, and boy, do we know it! Yesterday, a studio audience (and BroadwayWorld!) was invited to the set of GREASE: LIVE for the production's dress rehearsal, and it was truly astonishing to see this production unfold. If you're huge Grease fan, a lover of theatre, or even just a huge Aaron Tveit fangirl (let's be real, we know you're out there), then you're in for an absolutely amazing show! Here is a firsthand account of 10 Reasons why YOU should tune into GREASE: LIVE from our social media reporter, Maeve Riley.
10- The Audience
Being in the audience of GREASE: LIVE was magical, and the addition of the interactive crowd not only made it special for those there, but makes it special for those tuning in at home. Unlike any other musical television broadcast, seeing and hearing the reactions of other people made the production, as a whole, flow in a more graceful and flawless manner (for me!). While I was there, and throughout the broadcast that will be aired, the folks scattered throughout the sets brought a healthy mixed vibe between a wonderful theatrical experience, and a fun, head-bopping concert.
9- The Sets/Costumes
As a lover of GREASE, I was definitely hoping that FOX would pay homage to the period the show is set in, and I was wondering how this would be executed visually. Upon my entrance to my seat in front of Rydell High School, I realized that these sets (by David Korins) would be nothing short of wonderful. The grassy area representing the quad right in front of us where the actors performed cheerleading tryouts and where performers clad in classic 50's attire (by William Ivey Long) were walking to and from class were designed with a keen eye in mind. The Beauty School Dropout set was the ethereal R&B dream you've always wished for, and the school dance costumes were beautifully designed to flatter any and all dancers strutting their stuff on the dance floor.
8- The Ensemble
While the main characters certainly overachieved in all facets of carrying this classic story, the ensemble brought the liveliness that fuels GREASE as a whole. Their upbeat personalities, smiling faces, and amazing dance abilities gave the show a brightness that I was so hoping to see shine through the production. This ensemble did a perfect job of setting the tone for the entire broadcast! I felt that I was transported back in time with all of them, and I'm certain that audiences at home will feel the same way!
7- The Pink Ladies
The classic Pink Ladies each brought their shining personalities and skills to the table during GREASE: LIVE, and the audience simply couldn't get enough of this vivacious crew of girls. Carly Rae Jepsen's acting chops as Frenchie were absolutely adorable, and her endearing spirit had the crowd rooting for her throughout the entire production. The original Frenchie (Didi Conn) also appeared in the show, and the interactions between her and Carly Rae brought a more nostalgic feel to the night. Keke Palmer absolutely steals the show with 'Freddy My Love' and brings her sass to the table in a most appropriate and hilarious way as Marty Maraschino. Kether Donohue portrays Jan in a strikingly cute and quitky fashion, and her comedy chops are more than apparent in any and all scenes she is in. Vanessa Hudgens rounds out the group as saucy ringleader Betty Rizzo. While Vanessa's background dips within the realm of theatre (Gigi, High School Musical), she really proves herself as this notorious rebel without a cause. Point in case, any and all girls watching (like myself) will yearn to be a part of this exclusive clique, and their quintissential pink jackets will be the envy of all who are tuning in.
6- Elle McLemore as Patty Simcox
Elle McLemore (Heathers the Musical), in my humble opinion, is one of the many (if not the most) hilarious performers in GREASE: LIVE. Her ability to make the audience laugh was exceptional, and her comedic timing was absolutely on point. Her humor made the character of Patty Simcox a bigger, better, and funnier part of the show. Being able to watch her perform made the audience burst into uproarious laughter, and viewers will be lucky to have the privilege of watching an actress who is so in tune with the audience she is performing for.
5- The T-Birds
The Greasers, as a whole, are absolutely the cutest group of guys on the theatre scene. Jordan Fisher commanded the show, and was the obvious standout with his solo as Doody. His voice was the perfect balance of smoky and smooth, and any girl who watches will instantly fall in love with this phenomenal talent. Carlos Pena gave a great performance as Kenickie, and was very enthusiastic for the camera and to the live audience during the breaks. While I didn't know much about him, I was very impressed with what he did on stage. Aaron Tveit was the leader of the T-Birds, and was absolutely the perfect choice for Danny Zuko.
4- The High School Dance Scene
The iconic Bandstand scene was such a joy to watch. Mario Lopez played the Bandstand's host, while Joe Jonas and his band DNCE made a cameo appearance as the entertainment for the evening. For anyone who had an aggressive love for the Jonas Brothers as a pre-pubescent teen, you will be brought back to a place with plenty of Joe Jonas screen time and all the middle school emotions you thought you had forgotten. Bless this day.
3- There Are Worse Things I Could Do- Vanessa Hudgens
I was interested to see how Vanessa Hudgens handled her large role as Rizzo, and was thoroughly pleased with her acting throughout the first act. Then, she sealed the deal with Rizzo's signature song, There Are Worse Things I Could Do. Vanessa's vocals catered perfectly to this song, and I was absolutely floored by her ability to emote while maintaining such a perfect sound. I was, undoubtedly, most impressed with Miss Hudgens by the end of the night. I could barely contain it- once she came out to transfer to another set after the song, I couldn't hold back my enthusiasm. I screamed out "YAAAS GIRL, THAT'S HOW IT'S DONE! YOU OWNED IT." Upon hearing this, she started aggressively giggling. I was only slightly embarrassed.
2- Aaron Tveit
For any and all Broadway aficionados, watching Aaron Tveit is a treat in itself. If you're an Aaron Tveit fan, this is especially wonderful, considering he looks like Jesus descending from the sky to grace us with his flawless vocal abilities. I wasn't just pleased with the fact that he was perfectly capable of taking on this role, but he did it in a way that wasn't over the top. The casting team made an effort to pick someone who had Broadway experience, and it made a world of difference. Plus, he looks like a total hunk in that leather jacket. My body, mind, and soul were not ready when he ran by me and waved. What a time to be alive.
I won't spoil it for those getting ready to watch, but just know that Julianne Hough is absolutely the right choice to play the sweet Sandy. Her voice is absolutely perfect for the role, and her dancing is (obviously) spectacular. Throughout the entire show, I kept questioning, "Why hasn't she been in a Broadway show yet?! When will we see her on the stage?! WHO KNEW THAT JULIANNE HOUGH HAD SUCH A PHENOMENAL VOICE?!" The Grease casting team absolutely hit the jackpot with this triple-threat, and solidified the fact that they picked two central leads who were perfectly equipped to take on these roles. WELL DONE, FOX! 10/10!
Photos: Fox Television
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