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Have you heard? Almost 5000 agree that Grease is the word
The curtain has been drawn on your 2023 Community Musical Grease, with record-breaking numbers and sold-out shows reinforcing that Grease is most definitely the word.
Playing eight shows (23-26 February and 2-5 March) with six of them sold out, Grease saw 4847 patrons attend the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC).
This patronage eclipses that of 2021 Community Musical Legally Blonde, which attracted 2945 people across five shows.
Audience feedback provided testament to the success of Grease:
“Amazing performance! All the cast should be proud of their opening night. Our town certainly does have some hidden talent.”
“It was so much fun! You guys did an awesome job and the whole crowd absolutely loved it. Congratulations on such a fantastic community show.”
“Awesome performance and something for everyone. Super proud of all involved.”
“The cast did an amazing job with every Grease song.”
“Fantastic show. It was electrifying!! Thank you.”
Gladstone Region Mayor Matt Burnett said the positive audience feedback emphasised the amount of creative talent found within the region.
“I know we have many talented performers within the Gladstone Region and it’s fantastic to read all the positive reviews of Grease as I’m sure those kind words have brought smiles to the faces of the cast and crew,” Councillor Burnett said.
“The first of 32 rehearsals started in September last year under the watchful eye of director Jeannine Butler, showing how much time and dedication went towards the production of Grease and honouring the legacy of Olivia Newton-John.”
Chosen as the 2023 Community Musical in April 2022, the production of Grease would go on to become a tribute to Dame Olivia Newton-John following her death on 8 August 2022.
“It was heartwarming to see Council and sponsors present a $3000 cheque to Associate Professor Delphine Merino from Olivia Newton John Cancer Research Institute at the opening night,” Cr Burnett said.
“Olivia had a 30-year, on again and off again battle with breast cancer, but through the charity that bears her name we have seen an advancement of cancer research and treatment, bringing hope to people all over the world.”
Grease Fast Facts
- 55 Community Members Auditioned
- 31 Successful Cast Members
- 21 Returning Musical Members
- Paul Dunnett played Danny Zuko in the 2004 Community Musical performance of Grease, 19 years later he returned as Johnny Casino
- 10 Lead Roles
- 32 Scheduled Rehearsals
- Eight shows (six sold out).
Fancy seeing a show at GECC? Visit www.gladstoneentertainment.com to see what’s coming up.
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