BUTLER TWP — A sold out audience Wednesday saw the opening of the six-show run of the Butler Summer Dramatics production of "Grease," and with tons of family in the audience, it was a friendly crowd.

There was nothing outstandingly wrong and nothing outstandingly stellar about the opening night performance. It didn't seem like the cast really enjoyed themselves or each other until the final number "We Go Together."

It might be if it just clicked or if it was relief, but the last number was a different caliber than much of the first act.

Danny and Sandy's chemistry seemed to be lacking until that final song. The tension was missing.

Zach Debacco, who played Danny, was quite entertaining in the "Alone at a Drive-in Movie" and pulled the audience right into his pitiful lament about being stood up. Katie Fissore, who played Sandy, seemed to really come alive during her last romp in "All Choked Up" in which she was a firecracker and finally seemed confident in her role and her acting and vocal ability.

The standout performer of the main characters was Tory Mysliwiec's version of Rizzo. She was sassy and had attitude throughout the show. She's grown up doing the summer shows.

"There Are Worse Things I Could Do" showcased her voice, which has definitely matured and developed over the years. She showed she is a young lady who can capably handle a major role.

Danielle Sickle played Marty and did a good job on "Freddy, My Love." She delivered the goods and the comedic timing during the number.

Her confidence on stage is apparent in all her roles.

Kudos goes to Connie Rodgers for her first stab at choreography. The show was well mapped out, and when it was done correctly, it was a delight to watch. The Hand Jive number was a blast.

But it was some entertaining minor roles that brought some pizzazz to the show.

"Those Magic Changes" sung by Doody (Justin "Bud" Anderson) was a commendable attempt while some of the high notes were out of reach. Anderson was not alone as several of the cast — male and female alike — seemed to strain out of their range occasionally.

But Anderson's solo was energetic, enjoyable and fun. We hope to see more of him in the future.

The Teen Angel played by Paul Wright was amazing. It was most likely the best vocal performance of the evening.

Eugene, played by Max McCurdy, was amusing as a quintessential nerd. His comedic acting and timing were delightful. It left me wishing he had a larger role in the show.

Cha Cha played by Jordan Bodden was hysterical. Bodden has been seen in ensemble numbers dancing and swaying in these summer productions for years with her long lean figure. With Cha Cha, the audience was finally able to see she is more than just graceful; the girl is funny.

The costumes were fabulous, and the youngsters dancing in the aisles were adorable. Several new faces were in the pit, and the music was mostly spot on. The opening night cast will have two more opportunities to ease into their roles.

If you are eager to hear "Hopelessly Devoted," this isn't the show for you because the stage version is different than the movie, leaving some of the more popular songs unsung and others in their place.

Undoubtedly pulling off a dual cast and a six-run show is quite the coupe for director Gordon Cavalero and Ken Schreffler Jr. and their host of helpers. It was an immense undertaking, and their hard work paid off providing a pleasant evening of entertainment which most likely will only get better as the show goes on.

<b>WHAT: </b>Butler Summer Dramatics production of "Grease"<b>WHEN: </b>7:30 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.<b>WHERE: </b>The Succop Theatre on the Butler County Community College campus<b>TICKETS: </b>$10-$12 available at May's Music Shoppe in Butler