"Grease"

August 1, 2019 — On my second visit to the New London Barn Playhouse in New London, New Hampshire this season, I joined a nearly full house to enjoy "Grease." This iconic musical play and movie about 1950s teens at fictional Rydell High School brought twenty players to the Barn's stage. John Battagliese and Lauren Echausse were outstanding in the roles of Danny Zuko and Sandy Dumbrowski, made memorable in the 1978 movie version by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Even those who never witnessed the play or movie certainly would recognize some of the great songs, such as "Summer Nights," "Freddy My Love" and "You're the One That I Want."

This was a fine production by the Barn. Of course it doesn't have the  polish of Broadway or Hollywood, but in the small, rustic Barn theater with its worn, uneven floors, low-hanging balcony and ringing of a cowbell to alert the audience intermission is over, it's an experience that can't be matched anywhere else.

"Grease" was written by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey. The Barn's production was directed by Russell Garrett with scenic design by Brad Carlson and costumes by Karl Green. Dance numbers, which were excellent and full of energy, were choreographed by Michael D. Jablonski. Katie Siegmund was musical director.

I won't attempt to list the entire twenty-member cast here, but besides the aforementioned Battagliese and Echausse, Daniel S. Hayward was the flamboyant master of ceremonies, Vince Fontaine. Kailie Boyle was Rizzo, leader of the Pink Ladies. Dawn Tucker, who I felt should have had more time on-stage, was the teacher, Miss Lynch. Nick Cortazzo was the quintessential '50s jock, Johnny Casino. Bradley Ford Betros ate up scenery as Roger, and Justin Norwood was the nerdy Eugene.

Song and dance numbers were exhilarating. Solos were all well-sung, but a bit over-amplified, as was the orchestra at times. But, I suppose if you don't like it loud, you've got no business at a rock musical. I should mention Caroline Attayek as Patty Simcox and RhonniRose Mantilla as Cha-Cha DeGregorio, both of whom appeared earlier this season at the Barn in "Pajama Game," for their great dance moves.