Presented by: Pelican Productions
Reviewed: 8 August 2026
For over two decades, Pelican Productions has fostered the talent of Adelaide’s theatre-aspiring youth, with plenty of hit shows and well-received performances. Their 2026 production of Grease is the next feather in their cap, playing to an almost sold-out Arts Theatre last night.
It’s hard to go wrong with Grease though. The characters are enjoyable, but not very deep. The songs are lots of fun, but not overly challenging. And it has entertained fans for more than 50 years, so you know you’re going to draw a crowd.
Regardless, this show was well put together, delightfully delivered, and adored by the audience. The leads were well cast, and their performances were solid. The ensemble gave it their all and brought the goods. The orchestra was tight and the backstage departments all hit their marks, so to speak.
As is common with youth productions, the season implemented 2 different casts, with some performers having lead roles in one cast and different roles in the other. We witnessed Cast 2, with Ali Burns and Alek Kudra as Sandy and Danny respectively. Both gave strong performances with great vocals.
Caitlin Laventure’s Rizzo was sassy and strong, playing well opposite Henry Green’s fun and considered Kenickie. Frenchy was faithfully brought to life by Lucy Stirling, who’s Beauty School Drop-Out scene with special guest Mark Stefanoff as Teen Angel was very entertaining and well received.
Some of the comedic timing and subtleties didn’t quite land, leaving the audience feeling as though they were rushed or undercooked. Vanessa Lee Shirley’s direction may have benefitted from a little more time spent on some of the jokes, but overall, the direction is smooth and firm. The choreography from Nic Collins is honourable enough to what people are expecting to see from Grease, but refreshingly tweaked enough to not give us the same old same old. Ben Francis’ Musical Direction sees a great sounding cast backed by an equally great sounding orchestra.
Pelican Productions shows are always a treat, and the talent they’re pumping out is outstanding. Adelaide Theatre-Lovers should be grateful for the grass-roots work and success they deliver, as it promotes and strengthens the scene in a way that benefits us all.
Reviewed by Doug Phillips
Photo credit: supplied
Venue: The Arts Theatre
Season: Until August 9th
Duration: 2.5 hrs (incl 20 min interval)
Tickets: $35 – $50 (plus booking fee)
Bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/au/event/1596031
