Ian Laudano of Matawan will play Kenickie in Phoenix Productions’ rendition of “Grease.” I an Laudano of Matawan will play Kenickie in Phoenix Productions’ revival of the Broadway musical, “Grease,” coming to the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank starting July 11.
A June graduate of Matawan Regional High School, Ian will begin attending Montclair State University to study musical theater in the fall. Having done school shows for many years, this community theatrical production is a new experience for him.
“This is my first non-high-school show,” Ian said. “Working with new actors and being able to perform at the Basie is very exciting.”
Based on the hit Broadway production of classic high school romance, “Grease” has made its way onto the big screen and into the hearts of millions.
Between classes at Rydell High School and trips to the drive-in, drama among the Pink Ladies and the Greasers takes over as two “summer lovers” reconnect at the start of the school year. Sandy and Danny shake things up with their friends at the beach and sock hops alike as they belt out such songs as “Beauty School Drop-Out” and “You’re the One that I Want.”
While the show is composed of many elements, Ian specifically enjoys his role in the production.
“I am very excited about this character,” he said. “Kenickie is the low-key, meaner guy of the group, but he gets to sing the best song, ‘Greased Lightning.’ “
Performances are scheduled for Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, July 11-20.
Priced at $20 to $32, tickets can be purchased at the box office, ordered by phone at 732-842-9000 or ordered online at www.countbasietheatre.org.
Phoenix is a nonprofit community theater that has produced more than 100 revivals of hit Broadway musicals over the past two decades.
For more information, call 732-747- 0014 or visit www.phoenixredbank.com.