...last week, in fact.
I was a bit out of sorts last week, in fact, as - despite still having my usual lessons and prepping a new set list for a performance this week, my mind was more focused on what was to come each evening from and including Tuesday - Saturday (that is 24th - 28th October 2023).
And this was 'Grease', as performed by the amazing CMT (Congleton Musical Theatre). I have been working with them as musical director on this show since April, now, and it felt like an incredibly long process. However, this last month or so it has really caught up and suddenly it was show week!
After a long, long day on Sunday 22nd (band call, tech rehearsal and dress rehearsal), it was time to open on the Tuesday (after a final rehearsal on the Monday evening). And we opened to the first of five sell out audiences.
Basically, without trying to sound entirely biased as I've been living and breathing this iconic yet decidedly odd show for half a year now, it was a wonderful production. Everybody pulled together. Not just cast, of course, but backstage, sound, lights and more, to make each evening one to remember.
And, of course, to really see closing night off with a band, we had the token band selfie. I took one, of course, but that was near the beginning when the lights were a bit iffy. Thankfully, saxophonist extraordinaire Niamh Boland took a superior one at the end - when the lights were up:
Thank you to the Daneside and to Congleton Musical Theatre for your hospitality, and to the whole band pictured above for your amazing playing and being a joy to play alongside. Well done to the incredible cast of 'Grease' and best of wishes for all your next ventures!
Keen an eye on the website for amazing production pictures from this show!
Danny Zuko - Kieran Picken
Sandy Dumbrowski - Sam Sherliker-Hewitt
Kenickie - Cory Evans
Betty Rizzo - Abbie Lloyd
Roger - Sid Smith
Jan - Autumn Allen
Sonny Latierri - Gethin Evans
Marty - Charlotte Wills
Doody - Harry Gill
Frenchie - Charlotte Dean
Eugene Florczyk - Rob Tagell
Patty Simcox - Erin Shaw
Cha-Cha Digregorio - Lucie Middleton
Miss Lynch - Hannah Bours
Blanche - Sam Ainsworth
Mrs Johnson - Dawn Fish
Vince Fontaine - Nigel Evans
Teen Angel - Micheal Daws
Ensemble - Lily Clowes, Harvey Griffiths, Taylor Dakin, Ashton Elms, Nadine Lear, Chloe Paige, Megan Paige
Piano / Keyboard - Jack Smith
Electric Guitar - Darren Bello
Bass Guitar - Alastair Kennington
Saxophone - Niamh Boland
Drums - Tony Lawson