This was the first time I had seen a stage production of Grease - a musical that is now regarded as a phenomenon.

Having been a major fan of the film from a young age, I fondly remember queuing round the block to see the celluloid version at Keighley's Picture House back in 1978 at the tender age of eight.

Originally written for the stage in 1971, Grease opened in Chicago with none of the lavish trimmings that were enjoyed at tonight's performance.

From humble beginnings the show has grown into one of the most well-known and well-loved pieces of musical theatre of all time - and last night's performance at the Alhambra was no exception.

From entering the auditorium I was presented with a fabulous neon-lit stage and a huge neon floating Grease logo.

As the house lights dimmed and the music rose, the logo faded and brilliant bright lights spelt out the word Grease. For a second I was eight again.

Lighting played an important role in creating the overall atmosphere, adding excitement to the solid rock and roll numbers like Greased Lightnin' and You're the One that I Want, which contrasted well with subdued effects for ballads like Hopelessly Devoted and There are Worse Things I Could Do.

Simple but very effective set and costume design led me through the story from Rydell High School to the Burger Palace and along the way a spectacular stop-off at the Garage to see the T-Birds working on Greased Lightnin', a real treat.

I must admit I had lower expectations of this production, having no real stand-out star names. How wrong could I be!

With so many major characters it's difficult to single out individuals but some did have outstanding moments. Sonny (John Trakos) and Jan's (Karen Holmes) Mooning was a great mix of stunning vocals and hilarious comedic timing. Ben Richards and Suzanne Carley, as Danny and Sandy were well cast and made a striking lead couple.

This is not a carbon copy of the movie. All the basics are there but some memorable scenes are missing, making the stage show feel like an abridged version of a well-known story. All in all it's a very enjoyable night out that will have your foot tapping, hands clapping and face smiling.

Grease is definitely the word to be heard at the Alhambra this Week. Runs until Saturday.

Oly Scott