Review: Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical, Evolution London  

Not knowing what to expect going into an Immersive Movie Musical experience, my expectations were blown out of the water as the experience started right when you walk through the gate. For those unfamiliar with Secret Cinema productions, this is not your typical theatre-going experience. With freedom to roam, access to the food and drink bars throughout and singing along not frowned upon, at points it feels closer to a concert.  

Definitely recommend getting there early; there is so much to do before the official show actually starts. Grab a drink at the bar, investigate all the merchandise, or enjoy one of the activities included in the ticket price: hook a duck, go on the Ferris wheel or take part in beauty school.   

Once inside the main venue, the full backdrop to the night is revealed with set pieces designed by Tom Rogers dispersed throughout the space and lots of room to move about and explore the set up close. We sat in the Drive seats which gave a good view over the standing crowd and had clear sight lines to all the action. Although the sitting was a tight fit, it was nice to have the option to sit down and enjoy a sweet treat from Frosty Palace anytime during the show. However, we did choose to stand and dance for most of the night, as it felt more involved in the immersive aspects of the show.  

Lots of audience members dress up or come as they are; either way, there are lots of opportunities to be invited on stage, to dance at prom, join in at the sleepover or be a cheerleader at a sports match. These fun interactive elements make the night fly by. The event is filled with supportive staff that keep you in the moment but can help you anytime.    

It is worth noting that the movie is not played in its entirety; clips play alongside musical numbers and fill space when set and cast changes are happening. Some of the movie clips’ video and sound were out of sync, making it a bit jarring at times. But the production value is so good that the show does not need to rely on the film to engage the audience.  

At times it is hard to follow the storyline, only because there is so much to look at all at once. But let’s be honest, who doesn’t know the legendary story of Grease which truly comes alive here with the live band, free roaming characters and glitz and glam of musical numbers. All the classic movie scenes are brought to life in front of you, including many of the famous dance numbers choreographed by Jennifer Weber; the bold moves, tricks and flips of the 1950s are made for extravagant group numbers. 

The whole cast works tirelessly throughout the night, creating outstanding performances of iconic musical numbers including ‘Grease Lightnin’’ and ‘You’re The One That I Want’. With so many moving parts, costume changes, live singing and dancing, the cast flawlessly creates Rydell High inches in front of you. Lucy Penrose gives a standout performance as Rizzo, performing ‘There Are Worse Things I Coud Do’ with raw emotion.  

If you’re seeking your next summer high, then look no further. A fabulous spectacle well worth your time, Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical hits all the marks with live music, dancing and outside fun fare. The movie is truly brought to life at this unique event – enjoyable for everyone! 

Directed by: Matt Costain  
Choreography by: Jennifer Weber  
Set Design by: Tom Rogers  
Costume Design by: Susan Kulkarni and Martina Trottman 
Lighting Design by: Howard Hudson  
Sound Design by: Gareth Fry  
Music Supervision, Orchestration and Arrangement by: Steve Sidwell 
Video Design by: Ian William Galloway  

Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical plays at Evolution London until Sunday 13 September