Travolta and beyond

MANILA, Philippines - Classic works of art are constantly reproduced throughout time, and these often lead to interesting results. Some of them might’ve turned out better than the original (The Lord of the Rings trilogy), some do its predecessor equal justice (the Marvel Cinematic Universe), and some are so terrible that no amount of editing or splicing can save it (the film adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender).

9 Works Theatrical’s take on the colorful world of Rydell High School’s students in Grease: The Musical, however, takes a very different approach from the 1978 film that manages to stay true to the story with minor plot twists that keep it fresh to death.

It was at first a bit surprising to see many songs “displaced” in 9 Works Theatrical’s production when compared to the film. Unbeknownst to many — including this writer — the local production is actually adapted from the 1971 Broadway musical, not the film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Which ultimately makes more sense, anyway.

True-blue Greasers need not worry, though, because all of your favorite numbers have been unfailingly taken into account. The ensemble performs the jumpy We Go Together with so much pomp that the audience will quite literally, get out of their seats. Francheska Farr’s Sandra Dumbrowski will still pull at your heartstrings with her rendition of sawi-sa-karaoke classic, Hopelessly Devoted to You.

And bonus track, Rafa Siguion-Reyna, who plays Kenickie, stole the spotlight with a performance of Greased Lightning that might just make one’s knickers melt. (Pun possibly intended.)

What is perhaps most compelling that our local Grease has to offer is that unlike the film, there’s always a new surprise in every single show. Aside from interchanging cast members, there’s a revolving door of Teen Angels, so you’re not quite sure which brilliant veteran actor or young heartthrob will charm you in Beauty School Drop-Out on the day you watch.

Reproducing classics can sometimes lead to dangerous waters; playing it again and again to a familiar audience ends up being dull and boring. But 9 Works Theatrical manages to bring in the fun and stay faithful to the production’s many previous incarnations that one must ask: Who knew Grease could ever feel so fresh? — Margarita Buenaventura