Review: GREASE at Rise Above Performing Arts

Under the artistic direction of Jacob Ruscoe, Rise Above Performing Arts states they were formed with a dedicated group of talented individuals who share common dreams. The vision and mission of this not-for-profit organization is to give those with the desire and love of the performing arts the ability to express that love in a way that exceeds all expectations. Rise Above partners with local organizations to help artists of all ages achieve their performance goals. They also provide financial support to send young actors to receive the training they desire to help them attain their goals.

Replicating a beloved musical such as Grease is quite a feat for any theatre group. Mr Ruscoe, Musical Director Joi Chapman, Musical Technician Krista Baker, Choreographer Rachael Henry, Creative Artistic Advisor KEVIN Ray Johnson and the rest of the devoted crew and cast put their hearts and souls into this lively production, starring an eager cast made up of various ages and performance abilities.

I thought the dialogue and storyline was a bit mature for some of the cast, as well as some of the younger audience members, but overall the production was genuinely fun. The cast was cohesive and especially tight when the entire ensemble of 37 performers were on stage together. Taylor Reister as Sandy was cute and believable and made a dazzling transition to black leather Sandy. Her version of Hopelessly Devoted to You was sweet. Stevie Romero as Kenickie was solid. He owned the part and played it to the hilt. His energetic rendition of Greased Lightning was engaging. Sarah Conte as Rizzo shined as a performer with well developed singing and dancing abilities. Emily Mollin was perfect as the tenacious Marty. Leah Henry was spot on as Frenchy.

Kudos to Community Foundation of Sarasota County who generously sponsored this production. It is a blessing to live in a community that takes great measures to support the arts. Rise Above Performing Arts meets the needs of so many talented performers striving to attain their best and deserve to be groomed and seen.

For more information on Rise Above Performing Arts visit www.riseabovearts.com.

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