Meghan O'Shea Grease The Arena Experience Interview

You're the One That I Want

With over 500 performers on stage, Grease The Arena Experience is big in every sense of the word. Executive Producer, Tim O'Connor, is delighted to announce a third and final show at QUDOS Bank Arena. Tickets are on sale now for Friday 19 and Saturday 20 January 2018 at www.ticketek.com.au

Christine Anu will take on the role of Teen Angel – regarded as one of most fabulous roles in musical theatre.

The Footy Show's very own long-time larrikin Beau Ryan will showcase his zany humour and suit up in the role of the cheesy DJ Vince Fontaine.

Beau Ryan is well known to Sydney audiences as the loveable larrikin on the NRL Footy Show, but this is not his first venture onto the stage. In 2015 he starred in Bonnie Lithgow's Aladdin, which gave him a taste for the live theatre experience.

Meghan O'Shea (Singing in the Rain) returns in the iconic role of star-crossed lover, Sandy and making his debut in a lead role, Damon Wade as Danny. Lauren McKenna – who played Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray – the Big Fat Arena Spectacular, will swap a can of hairspray for a Pink Ladies jacket when she takes on the role of Jan. Also starring Chris Geoghegan as Kenickie, Ruby Clark as Rizzo, Stacey de Waard as Frenchie and Emily Monsma as Marty alongside a mass ensemble of over 500 young performers.

The ultimate party musical features all the favourite hits including; You're the One That I Want, Greased Lightnin, Grease is the Word, Summer Nights, Beauty School Drop Out and Born to Hand Jive.

Grease is the timelessly funny story of 1950s teen love, cliques, and peer pressure. Join your favourite Rydell High students, Danny & Sandy, The T-Birds and the Pink Ladies along with a cast of hilarious characters as they jive and bop their way to Graduation.

Where: QUDOS Bank Arena, Sydney Olympic Park
When Friday 19 January @ 8pm
Saturday 20 January at 2pm & 8pm
Prices: From $67 to $147
Bookings: www.ticketek.com.au
www.greasearenashow.com

Interview with Meghan O'Shea

Question: Can you share your first memories of watching the movie, Grease?

Meghan O'Shea: Like most people I grew up watching the Grease movie. I fell in love with not only the story, but more so the music. I think the timeless nature of the themes in the story and the enduring popularity of the style of the music will see Grease continue to be a much loved story that spans generations.

Question: Have you watched the show, recently, in preparation for your role as Sandy in the Grease: The Arena Experience?

Meghan O'Shea: Yes I did. Playing such an iconic character that is so beloved by audiences, I wanted my portrayal of Sandy to incorporate aspects of the character that are the reasons people adore her. Olivia Newton-John so effectively captured the journey of this character in the original film, while Julianne Hough masterfully brought Sandy into a more contemporary setting in the recent live action version of Grease. Both portrayals brought to life the journey of a young woman growing up, and because everyone can relate to the struggles Sandy faces throughout this transition, I believe, is what makes this character so beloved.


Question: How are you similar to the character of Sandy?

Meghan O'Shea: I think I'm similar to Sandy because like most people I have experienced the same things as she has, so telling this story feels natural to me because I have lived it.


Question: How are you preparing for the upcoming Grease: The Arena Experience shows?

Meghan O'Shea: I make it a priority to maintain my physical and vocal fitness in the lead up to the performances. I sing regularly and I enjoy going to the gym. I also run the show every so often to keep it fresh in my mind.


Question: What should audiences expect from these shows?

Meghan O'Shea: I think audiences can expect the story they know and love, with aspects of the story brought into a more contemporary setting. I think everyone should be prepared for a party and a toe-tapping good time with the songs they know and love.


Question: Do you have a favourite part of the show?
Meghan O'Shea: My favourite part of the show is the finale. I love looking out into the audience and seeing the audience singing and dancing along.


Question: Or, a favourite song?

Meghan O'Shea: Again, it would be singing You're the One That I Want because you can hear the audience singing along.


Question: How do you calm pre-show nerves? Do you have any rituals?

Meghan O'Shea: I don't really feel nerves anymore, and I don't have any rituals either. More excitement at the opportunity to share such a special and beloved story.


Question: What inspired your passion for performing?

Meghan O'Shea: I don't remember! I just remember that being on stage felt natural and right for me.


Interview by Brooke Hunter