There’s no denying that we all love a bit of Grease – the 1978 film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John is etched into our minds as an absolute cult classic at this point.
And the stage production is just as lighthearted and entertaining, so a midweek pick-me-up to see Grease The Musical at the Palace Theatre in Manchester was just what the doctor ordered.
If, like me, you could probably recite 80% of the film by heart and the Grease Megamix is one of your most played songs on Spotify, then you’re in for an absolute treat speckled with a few unexpected surprises.
The T-Birds and the Pink Ladies sing the classics with gusto, defiance and teenage rebellion. Add in exceptional choreography from Arlene Philips into the mix and you’ve got yourself an assault on the senses, but in the best way possible.
A definite highlight was ‘Freddy My Love’, a song written specifically for the musical that sees Marty (played by India Chadwick) longingly yearn for her so-called fiancé in the iconic sleepover scene.
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Chadwick won the audience over whilst singing a lesser known song, a feat not easy to complete but done with ease.
Images: SuppliedImage: Supplied
Other highlights included ‘Beauty School Dropout’, because who can resist a cast dressed in pink bouffant wigs and fluffy wings, and ‘Born To Hand Jive’.
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Both numbers spearheaded by Josh Gash who played the coveted multirole of Vince Fontaine and Teen Angel, a role that if done well could steal the show – and he absolutely did.
Marley Fenton and Hope Dawe brought the love story of Danny and Sandy vividly to life, all thanks to their electric on-stage chemistry and exceptional vocals which made the audience at ease from the opening note.
Grease the Musical is on at the Palace Theatre in Manchester. Image: Supplied
Rebecca Stenhouse, playing Betty Rizzo, was nothing short of sensational. Her sharp wit and stern look had the audience in fits of laughter, while her impressive vocals left us in awe.
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Overall if you’re looking for a fun night out at the theatre, then this is the production for you.
Two hours filled with brilliant songs that you know the lyrics to, stellar choreography and dazzling special effects – you’ll most definitely be leaving with a smile on your face if nothing else plus perhaps a few melodies in your head.
Grease The Musical is on at the Palace Theatre in Manchester until Saturday 19 October, and you can get your tickets HERE.
Beloved play The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time set to return to the stage in Manchester
Emily Sergeant
One of the most beloved stage plays of the 21st Century is returning to Manchester.
Based on the celebrated 2003 novel of the same name that captivated readers worldwide, and inspired a groundbreaking National Theatre production, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is returning to one of Manchester‘s most iconic stages in early 2027 as part of a major UK tour.
The new play is adapted from Mark Haddon’s multi-million-selling novel by acclaimed Playwright Simon Stephens, and will be directed by Ned Bennett.
Taking over the Manchester Opera House stage in March 2027, critics have described the production as ‘inventive, gripping, and moving’.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time combines the intrigue of a whodunnit with a powerful coming-of-age story to create an ‘unforgettable’ theatrical event.
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If you’re not familiar with the plot, the play tells the story of Christopher Boone – a gifted child with a brilliant mind for numbers, but unsettled by the unpredictability of people and everyday life.
When a neighbour’s dog is killed, he finds himself under suspicion, but determined to prove his innocence, Christopher becomes both detective and suspect, drawn into a mystery that grows darker and more complex with every clue he uncovers.
What begins as the search for a culprit soon reveals secrets closer to home, ultimately forcing him to confront truths that will test his courage, his family, and his understanding of trust, independence, and the wider world.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is coming to Manchester / Credit: Supplied
“The journey of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time has been an extraordinary adventure,” commented Playwright Simon Stephens, as the new adaptation was announced this week.
“It has taken me all over the world. From church halls to enormous auditoria, and from school drama clubs to Wembley Way.
“I am thrilled that Christopher Boone is about to head out again through the United Kingdom. He is a boy defined by his determination and his bravery. This feels like a time when those characteristics are more urgently needed than ever.”
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is coming to Manchester Opera House as part of its UK tour from Tuesday 2 – Saturday 6 March 2027, and tickets go on general sale next Friday (21 November) at 10am.
The Karate Kid – The Musical, inspired by the iconic 80s film, is coming to Manchester
Daisy Jackson
Iconic 80s film The Karate Kid has now been reimagined as a stage musical – and it’s coming to Manchester next spring.
The Karate Kid – The Musical will be heading out on its UK premiere tour in 2026, including a run of dates at the Palace Theatre in Manchester.
The musical follows the same themes as the original, legendary 1984 film, a coming-of-age story that follows the relationship and teachings between Daniel LaRusso and Mr Miyagi.
It’s not just about karate, it’s about resilience, mentorship, and the quiet strength that bridges generations, and on the stage you can expect movement, music, and energetic storytelling too.
The original blockbuster starred Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita and has gone down in history as one of cinema’s greatest films, earning Morita an Academy Award nomination.
It’s become a major global franchise, including three movie sequels, a remake with Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan, and a Netflix series (Cobra Kai).
The Karate Kid – The Musical made its world premiere in 2022, selling out theatres and earning rave reviews.
Those iconic cinematic moments are brought to life on the stage by a Tony Award-winning design team.
The Karate Kid – The Musical is heading on a major UK tour before it hits the West End and Broadway.
It’s written by Robert Mark Kamen, screenwriter of the original 1984 movie, with music and lyrics by Drew Gasparini.
Kamen says: “William Goldman said about Hollywood “No one knows anything.” He was right.
“Who knew that 43 years after I wrote the original script for THE KARATE KID, we would see these very same characters acting and singing on the British stage in a story that is as fresh and universally relevant as it was four decades ago.”
The Karate Kid – The Musical is at the Palace Theatre from Tuesday 12 to Saturday 23 May 2026, with tickets on sale now HERE.
Clementine Hall -
10th October 2024 
