Review: Grease
Everyone is familiar with the 1978 film Grease, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. It spawned a string of chart-topping hits and became one of the most loved movie musicals of all time. However, the story actually began in 1971 as a stage musical, created as a nostalgic homage to American culture in the 1950s.
Grease is the latest production to be taken on by The CTC, quite possibly the finest company I’ve seen when it comes to staging large-scale musicals. Time and again they produce shows that easily match the quality of many professional touring productions seen on stages across the country. What makes that achievement even more remarkable is that every performer is under the age of 25 and a student at The CTC Performing Arts Academy and College in Needham Market.
As always, The CTC has excelled in bringing this much-loved musical to the stage at The Apex. From the opening number to the finale, the energy never drops as we’re taken through the timeless love story of Danny (Alfie Neal) and Sandy (Izzy Lungley). Yes, we all know how it ends, but that’s part of the charm—it’s a feel-good musical packed with fantastic songs, energetic dance routines and plenty of moments that have you tapping your feet, clapping along and singing under your breath.
The two leads were outstanding. Alfie Neal perfectly captured Danny’s swagger and vulnerability, while Izzy Lungley delivered a superb performance as Sandy. Her rendition of Hopelessly Devoted to You was beautifully sung and one of the highlights of the evening. Watch out for this young lady—she has an incredibly bright future ahead of her.
Over the years I’ve consistently been impressed by the extraordinary talent The CTC produces. Strong vocals, convincing performances and superb choreography combine to create an ensemble that is a credit to the company.
While reviewers quite rightly praise the leading roles, special mention should also go to some of the supporting cast. Laurelle Matthews-Sole and Cameron Patchett, as Jan and Roger, brought plenty of laughs with their excellent comic timing, adding another layer of enjoyment to an already entertaining production.
Quite simply, this is a fantastic production and an absolute pleasure to watch. In fact, I’d happily see it all over again—and that probably tells you everything you need to know. I can’t wait to discover what The CTC takes on next.
Performances continue today, Saturday 4th July, at 2.00pm and 7.00pm at The Apex.
www.theapex.co.uk
Review: Mark Keable, Ipswich24 Magazine
