Grease

Recently Updated

Introduction to "Grease"

"Grease" first hit London’s West End at the New London Theatre on June 26, 1973, following its Broadway premiere in 1972. Created by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, this rock 'n' roll musical ran for 605 performances in its initial West End stint, later returning in multiple revivals, including a record-breaking run at the Dominion Theatre from 1993 to 1999 with 2,529 performances. Set in 1950s America, it launched stars like Elaine Paige and Richard Gere in its early London cast, cementing its status as a cultural juggernaut with hits like "Summer Nights" and "Greased Lightnin’."

The Creative Team Behind the Show

Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey wrote the book, music, and lyrics, drawing from Jacobs’ Chicago high school memories. The 1973 West End production was directed by David Gilmore, with choreography by Danny Bayne capturing the era’s jive and swagger. Early casts featured Paul Nicholas as Danny Zuko and Elaine Paige as Sandy Dumbrowski, while the 1993 revival boasted Shane Richie and Craig McLachlan. The 1978 film’s success starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John boosted its stage profile, with subsequent productions like the 2007 revival at the Piccadilly Theatre shaped by director David Gilmore and choreographer Arlene Phillips.

A Rock 'n' Roll Romance at Rydell High

Set in 1959 at Rydell High, "Grease" follows greaser Danny Zuko and good-girl Sandy Dumbrowski, who fall in love over a summer fling. Back at school, Danny’s tough-guy act with the T-Birds clashes with Sandy’s wholesome vibe among the Pink Ladies, led by Rizzo. Through pep rallies, sleepovers, and the school dance, their romance falters and reignites, peaking with Sandy’s transformation into a leather-clad rebel. Songs like "Hopelessly Devoted to You" and "You’re the One That I Want" drive the tale of love, loyalty, and teenage rebellion to a rousing finale.

Performance and Reception

The 1973 debut earned mixed reviews some critics found it “crude” per The Times but audiences adored its nostalgic energy, propelling its initial success. The 1993 revival, riding the film’s fame, became the West End’s longest-running "Grease," with The Stage praising its “infectious vitality.” The 2007 revival, cast via ITV’s "Grease Is the Word," drew 350,000 attendees despite lukewarm notices, with The Guardian noting its “crowd-pleasing polish.” Each iteration showcased evolving casts like Susan Boyle’s brief 1996 stint keeping the show a West End staple across decades.

Legacy in West End Theatre

"Grease" transformed musical theatre with its raw, youthful edge, influencing jukebox musicals and teen-centric shows. Its West End runs 1973, 1993, 2007, and a 2021 Dominion revival total thousands of performances, with the Piccadilly Theatre hosting it again in 2023. The original London cast recording and film soundtrack, with over 30 million sales, amplify its reach. A cultural touchstone, it’s been staged globally, from Australia to South Africa, and remains a West End icon, proving “Grease is the word” still resonates.