Secret Cinema: Grease The Immersive Movie Musical Review
GREASE IS THE WORD: AN IMMERSIVE, PINK LADY APPROVED NIGHT OUT
By Tanya Howard | Founder, The Live Review · @glamglitzlondon ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite
There are immersive events, and then there’s Secret Cinema. Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical doesn’t just blur the line between screen and reality. It smashed through it with a can of hairspray and a slick of Brylcreem. Before you even set foot inside Evolution London, the party has already started with a retro funfair. We’re talking a ferris wheel, chair swings, hook-a-duck, food stalls, a bar. And even one of those mini moving-floor circus houses that’s equal parts fun and nausea-inducing.
Once inside, the transformation is next level. The venue becomes Rydell High, complete with zones like the Frosty Palace, the Autoshop, and the Beauty School. My tip? Spring for the VIP Seated tickets if you want to give your feet a break; it’s a 2.5-hour experience. But if you’re rolling general admission, hover by the left-hand bleachers. They become available after ‘Summer Nights’ and are prime real estate.
FROM FAIRGROUND TO FINALE, IT’S NON-STOP GREASED LIGHTNING
You’re encouraged to dress up, and it was fab seeing everyone’s take on the theme, but it’s not a must. As for the cast, they nailed the look. The costume designers knocked it out of the park, with looks that felt genuinely film authentic. Another great touch? The programme. If there’s ever a time to buy one, it’s now. It’s not just a rundown of who’s who. It’s giving proper yearbook vibes and is a fun one to flick through.
The event blends the film with live action, and for the most part, it works. The live vocals, live band, and the 30-strong cast move through and around the crowd. There were a few mic-level hiccups, but I think it was just teething problems. Some of the timing with the movie playing on overhead screens didn’t quite match up. Though I think this is my reviewer mindset, rather than something your average guest would likely notice.
Something that left me confused was some of the black and white clips they’d cut in between scenes. It fit the era, but just felt a little random. I presume it was a way to buy time for scene changes, but it didn’t always land. That said, Grease Lightning was a certified banger of a moment. I won’t spoil it, but it delivered. And my forever fave Grease character, Blanche, played by Julie Cloke, was everything. She brought the camp, the comedy, and the chaotic secretary energy we all know and love.
SECRET CINEMA BROUGHT RYDELL HIGH TO LIFE… AND THEN SOME
There’s so much to do beyond just watching. Grab a drink (we had some NICE sparkling white, not just an adjective, that’s the brand. But don’t tell Principal McGee! Grab a burger, go on some rides (maybe not in that order), chat with characters, and explore the set. Phones are a no-no once inside, which I honestly loved. It keeps the mystery alive, plus it’s Rydell High babes. No phones allowed in school!
The event ends where it all began: back outside for the finale numbers under the lights of the fairground. A full circle finish that ties everything up in a bow. Just one gripe: where were the bums?! They skipped the iconic TV mooning scene. I mean I get it, but still, I was ready! All in all, this is a big, bold, joyful, fun celebration of one of the most iconic movie musicals of all time. It’s theatrical. It’s immersive. Secret Cinema brought Rydell High to life, and if you’ve got a soft spot for Grease, this one’s for you.
Secret Cinema: Grease The Immersive Movie Musical is running until Sunday 7 September.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Photo Credit: Matt Crockett
One Comment
Sarah
Such a great review, you really captured the energy of the night. I completely agree about booking some seating, perhaps just personal opinion but looked like Frosty’s Diner looked like the best spot overall to get the best view of everywhere. There were so many clever touches throughout the event, and you highlighted them all without spoiling the experience. Loved reliving it through this!