Grease Production
Second time around and the show just got better! The original cast were superb and we had a lot of fun during rehearsals and the actual performances but this cast were sensational!
Casting was difficult way back in September and a few students were unhappy with my decisions but I knew that I had the right combination and pairings to create this wonderful show. The quality of singing was outstanding due to the talent and commitment of those involved. The Pink Ladies: Catherine, Hayley, Lyndsay, Ashleigh and Shauna adopted a professional attitude from day one and were a dream to work with. The boys: Chris, Mark, Karl, Ian, Jamie, James and Oliver came alive on the opening night and took command of the stage and the audience. Well done!
Special moments all blend in to one but I will mention a few. Chris Ball as Danny made life a lot easier because he could actually sing. The 'Magic Charges' boys: Ian, Chris, Jamie and Karl created an authentic 1950's sound. Lauren Hall is an all round performer who is dedicated to achieving as near to perfection as possible. Lyndsey Joyce was born to be Rizzo and sang 'There are worse Things I could do' with passion and a wonderful voice. After being back stage for many years and an undertaker in 'Bugsey' Karl eventually ventured forth and became a performer. Well done.
'Grease' is a difficult show to let go of because of the team spirit that develops during rehearsal but the cast will drift apart and move on but the memories will remain with them forever.
My special thanks go to Mark Crawford for managing to survive Tuesdays! Jamie Arkle and Hayley Hetherington for making me laugh so much and the whole cast for enjoying the whole experience. And finally - what can I say about Iain Kendrick and his dancing! Iain has been an inspiration to many students over the years and he will be missed - especially by me. Best of luck and I'm sure I'll see you next year.
I know that I have the bulk of the workload but I couldn't continue to direct/produce the shows without the help of a dedicated and hard working team. Many thanks to the production team: Janine Simper, Alison Jordan, David Marletta, Lee Harrison, Dawn Probert, Catriona Veide, Marion Simpson, John Reach, Davina Jackson, Elidh Gardiner, Ian Hardcastle, John Walsh, Colin Cresswell, Jeanie Shepherd and Mr Grigg for his continued support. Apologies if I have failed to mention anyone but thank you! Next year's timetable is already being discussed and we hope to offer opportunities for Year 7 to Year 13 students.
Hope you enjoyed this year's production and look forward to seeing you next year.