Verdict: Four stars

GREASE as a musical never gets boring.

It’s a classic and it deserves to be revamped.

And with characters as iconic as the greats of the era in which the show is set, the latest stage version of the show at the King’s Theatre is bound to be a hit with audiences.

The show opens up with a bang as the cast introduce themselves through the classic Frankie Valli hit Grease is the Word. Even at this stage of the production, you are instantly filled with nostalgia.

Tom Parker plays the infamous Danny Zuko, leader of the T-Birds and all round lothario. For any actor, following in John Travolta’s footsteps after he made the role in the movie is a big ask.

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The Wanted singer, however, holds his own. He hits the notes and his choreography is impressive throughout. A particular highlight, which showcased his voice beautifully, was when he sang the ballad Sandy. And this was clearly the turning point in which the audience really warmed up to Parker.

Over The Rainbow winner Danielle Hope was the perfect Sandy. She captured the essence of what Olivia Newton John encompassed for that part. She showed vulnerability and innocence and then took the spotlight away from her co-stars through her voice.

The celebrity filled cast continued with Strictly Come Dancing star Louisa Lytton who played Rizzo. At times, it felt that the part was too big for the former Eastenders star.

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Rizzo is iconic, feisty and vulnerable, and unfortunately Louisa did not always hit the spot in showcasing the best of what that character has to offer in the show.

Another celebrity actor, however, who stole the limelight in two roles which weren’t even that big in the movie was Gary Lamont, of River City fame. He became a standout star in this musical through his portrayals of Teen Angel and Vince Fontaine.

He switched easily between macho and smooth womaniser Vince to the incredibly camp Teen Angel. Gary’s voice was outstanding and his performance was completely memorable.

For many fans of the film, those characters were put up with because the main cast put on the performance of a lifetime. But Gary has managed to make these two characters central to the story.

This production of Grease was a pleasant surprise. When you have seen a story portrayed so many times, you wonder if you will ever be impressed by a new version of it – and the cast did just that, they impressed the whole audience at the King’s Theatre.

Born to Hand Jive showcased spectacular choreography, the sets transported the audience into that era and the energy of the cast put a smile on everyone’s face.

Grease is clearly the one you want to watch at the King’s Theatre until Sunday, May 20. 

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