IGREW up on Grease. The film is hard-wired into the memory of generations, and with a hit-tastic score it has a lot to offer audiences and ambitious companies.

The Newcastle Upon Tyne Musical Theatre Company certainly does it justice, bringing the look and feel faithfully to life with a cast and crew moonlighting from their day jobs.

This cute, sassy Romeo and Juliet story is in itself a homage to the supposedly innocent 1950s from the crazy 1970s, and the packed house certainly had a blast.

The group’s real strengths lie in their fantastic singing voices. It is genuinely moving to see the songs delivered with the passion and relish of a dedicated amateur.

Lauren Gordon, as Sandy, has a stunning voice, which really shines in Hopelessly Devoted to You, while Joshua Bambling as Danny is a great all-rounder, with the swagger, the gravity-defying hair and a great voice, although few performers, professional or amateur, could boast John Travolta’s exceptional range, and some transposing has been done. Other wonderful voices included Simon Pinkney as Roger for Moonin’ and Sarah Wales as Marty, though I missed her red hair from the film.

The ensemble numbers are fantastic and the whole company is to be applauded on their commitment to some pretty energetic dance routines, courtesy of director and choreographer Sandra Laidler. However, I couldn’t always see the action from the back of the Upper Circle and Teen Angel was endlessly decapitated, while some dancers had great footwork to offer and little else.

Sometimes, the geekiness of the piece was underplayed and occasionally there were moments of vulgarity. But the exuberance, talent and perspiration of the company ensure they would win the Hand Jive Contest any time.

Sarah Scott