Pitlochry Festival Theatre set to get its 2025 Summer Season off to an electrifying start
This June an exciting new production of the iconic rock ‘n’ roll musical Grease is set to get the Pitlochry Festival Theatre 2025 Auditorium Season off to a truly ELECTRIFYING start when it opens at Scotland’s Theatre in the Hills from 18 June until 27 September.
Produced by Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand Theatre and featuring a cast of actor musicians, Grease steps into the electrifying world of 1950s Rydell High School and follows the whirlwind romance between new girl Sandy Dumbrowski and popular guy Danny Zuko, who find their summer love challenged by the pressures of teenage life.
Join Sandy, Danny and the rest of Rydell High as they navigate the trials and tribulations of high school with their respective cliques—the sassy Pink Ladies and the greaser gang Burger Palace Boys—adding plenty of laughs, drama, and unforgettable musical moments along the way. With iconic songs like Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin and You’re the One That I Want, this high-energy show promises a nostalgic journey full of rock ‘n’ roll flair.
Bursting with a vibrant, dynamic, and talented company who capture the essence of teenage exuberance, rebellion and young love, this new version of the timeless classic is told with grit and verve capturing the idealism of the fifties, dreams, desires and journeys of self-discovery.
Grease is one of the world’s most popular musicals, and this fresh take on the story is sure to be the one that you want this Summer!
Grease opened in Chicago in 1971 and subsequently on Broadway in February 1972, where it received seven Tony nominations, including one for Best Musical. The original Broadway production played 20 previews and 3,388 regular performances. During the show’s eight-year run at the time, little known actors including Peter Gallagher, Patrick Swayze and John Travolta all appeared in the production, with Richard Gere understudying many roles before going on to star as Danny Zuko in the 1973 London premiere. The 1978 blockbuster film adaptation starred John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John.
Directed by the brilliant Sam Hardie, known for his exceptional work on “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and at Pitlochry Festival Theatre, this thrilling new production promises to be a spectacular showcase of talent. The ensemble of actor-musicians is nothing short of extraordinary! We have the dynamic Celeste Collier, who dazzled in “Rishi Sunak’s Doing A Musical” and “One Man, Two Guvnors,” taking on the role of Teen Angel. Tyler Collins brings his vibrant energy from “Part of the Century” to play Kenickie. Chris Coxon, who has charmed audiences in both “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical” and “The Wizard of Oz,” steps into Eugene’s shoes.
Stephanie Cremona will captivate as Cha Cha with her previous enchanting performances in “Cinderella” and “A Christmas Carol.” Caitlin Forbes shines as Patty after her remarkable roles in “The Stamping Ground” and Dundee Rep’s productions. April Nerissa Hudson brings her delightful presence as Frenchy from her memorable appearances in Derby Theatre’s classics.
Leah Jamieson graces us as Jan following her success with “Pride and Prejudice (Sort Of)” on West End stages. Blythe Jandoo embodies Sandy with a background rich from shows like “Gypsy” at Pitlochry Festival Theatre. Jerome Lincoln takes on Roger after his powerful performance in “Standing at the Sky’s Edge.” David Rankine joins us as Doody fresh off prestigious stages like RSC.
Oraine Johnson will bring Sonny to life following his engaging roles at Derby Theatre; Keith Macpherson charms once more as Vince Fontaine; Alyson Orr returns triumphantly to portray Miss Lynch; Alexander Service steps into Danny’s iconic role straight from “Heathers.” Fiona Wood captivates again as Rizzo with newcomers Eden Barrie debuting brilliantly as Marty alongside Louis Newman electrifying audiences playing Jonny Casino!
This cast is set to deliver an unforgettable experience that pulsates with passion, creativity, and sheer theatrical magic!
Director Sam Hardie said:
“Grease was the first musical I ever saw, and I still remember the feeling of seeing the film for the first time, with songs that made you just want to move and characters you longed to be! The musical is now over 50 years old and still its songs fill dance floors, karaoke rooms and play on radio stations across the world.
I was delighted to be asked to direct Grease at Pitlochry Festival Theatre and Blackpool Grand this summer; two places that hold such cherished memories for their audiences. The story is a celebration of what it means to be young: to fall in and out of love, to rebel, to dream, to dance and discover who we are and who we want to be. Now feels like exactly the right moment to tell this story and meet these young people who remind us of the vitality of life and that in this world we should go together rather than individuals apart.
I cannot wait to work with this incredible company taking you to Rydell High for a summer full of joy, love and dancing! ”
Grease runs at Pitlochry Festival Theatre from 18 June until 27 September. It will also run at Blackpool Grand Theatre from 4-14 June.
Tickets and further information are available from the Box Office on 01796 484626 or online at pitlochryfestivaltheatre.com.