General News
19 June, 2026
Young stars take centre stage
ARARAT Regional Theatre Society’s production of the hit musical Grease will open at the Ararat Town Hall tonight (Friday).
The large cast of experienced performers and newcomers, from Ararat, Stawell, Beaufort, Horsham and beyond, have been rehearsing since February, with the production crew working since late last year on music, costumes, sets, props and the many jobs that help bring a show to life.
In the leading roles, Sandy Dumbrowski is played by Zyggie Fraser and Danny Zuko by Daniel McCready, both experienced performers who have been on stage with Ararat Musical Comedy Society and now ARTS since they were children.
Other lead roles include Grayson Todd (Rizzo), Harry Hauser (Kenickie), Lucy Turville (Marty), Zafirah Harrison (Jan), Poppie Dykes (Frenchy), Aylah Knight (Patty), Logan Todd (Doody), Patty Belcher (Roger), Dom Bolton (Sonny), and Sheridan Keith (Eugene)
Minor roles include Maree Fraser (Teen Angel), Dom Bolton (Vince Fontaine), Nichole Palmer (Johnny Casino), Jacqueline Grayling (Cha-Cha DiGregorio), Rennie Hannan (Miss Lynch), and Kristy van Roosmalen (radio voice).
Director Russell Purdie said a highlight has been seeing such a young cast take the spotlight this year.
“It has been fantastic to see our young cast of lead performers form strong friendships, which is very evident when they bring their characters to the stage,” he said.
“I am really proud of our whole cast, as well as all our production crew who do all the things behind the scenes that make this show come to life.”
Mr Purdie said a particular highlight for audiences will be the fabulous 50s’ inspired costumes, sets and props, and the Greased Lightning car, made from scratch by a talented production crew.
“Greased Lightning has to be seen to be believed,” he said.
So don’t be a beauty school dropout, tickets are selling fast so get your tickets now!
Grease will be staged at the Ararat Town Hall from tonight until June 28, with two matinees.
Tickets are available via ararattownhall.com.au, phone 1800 657 158 or visit the Ararat and Grampians Visitor Information Centre adjacent to the Ararat Gallery.
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