“” Lyric and , book, music and lyrics Michael Baron, director

OKC FRIDAY By Franci Hart

Seldom do words fail me. After all, I make my living with them. Yet, trying to find the exact expression to capture Lyric Theatre’s production of “Grease” stumped me. It was beyond joyous as over 60 ensemble and cast members danced to production numbers that were better than a half time show. The energy of all that young talent, the creative sets, the visual excitement were outside the realms of spectacular. Director Michael Baron made a tired musical fresh.

“Grease” is a teenage love story set in 1959. It has all the exuberance of and slightly deals with some of that eras problems. Sandy, (Sydney Jones) new girl, nice girl, is in love with Danny (Joe Caskey) leader of the greasers. Thus, their worlds are vastly different. “Grease” is also the story of Sandy discovering her true self. But more importantly, it has great musical numbers.

“Grease” runs about 90 minutes with a five minute break in the middle. This required that some of the narrative in this production be shorter. But none of the musical number are lessened. They were performed in all their glory. In fact, there was a universal feeling of wanting more after the ending number “We Go Together.”

Prior to the opening Vince Fontaine (TJ Brown) of WAXX radio spins 50s rock and roll music and carries on with the audience in DJ form. Brown’s performance set the tone for the show and built nicely to the anticipated opening number, which does not disappoint. Picture 60 young talented dancers racing onto the Bishop McGuiness HS football field, singing, dancing and having fun to “Grease”. And the hits raced on: “Summer Nights,” “Freddy My Love,” “Born to Hand Jive” just to name of few. The show stopper, though was “Greased Lighting” featuring Kenickie (Caleb Barnett) dancing on the top of a classic junker car.

While in most productions of “Grease” the roles of Danny (Joe Caskey) and Sandy (Sydney Jones) are of star power. Director Baron had a more balanced view of the show which added to its energy and creative variety. Rizzo (Gabby Rae Jimenez), Roger (Gabriel Lemus), Johnny Casino (J. Antonio Rodriguez) and French (Anna McGuire) all had shining moments. The audience cheered by Sandy socked the obnoxious Patty Simcox (Faith Flanders).

Lyric’s commitment to live theater, even during a pandemic, generated a need for innovation and rethinking its season. And that took them to a HS football field. The moveable sets by Kimberly Powers were simple, yet effective at capturing the scene and mood. Vincent Sandoval choreography was superb.

“Grease” will play at Bishop McGuiness HS football stadium through June 27. “Grease” is an experience one does not want to miss. Forget that it is summer and hot. This is a show to see.