There seems to be something in the air these days, and it smells a lot like Grease! There are two big Grease-related events happening over the next few weeks.
First off, this upcoming weekend features Sing-a-Long-a Grease at the TIFF Bell Lightbox. The 1978 musical will be screened while the audience, many of whom will be in 50s costume, sings along at the top of its lungs. I saw this film many times the year it came out, mostly with girls I had crushes on, so there’s definitely some nostalgic appeal for me. And it appears that I’m not alone. Two of the four performances are already sold out.
More intriguing (to me, in any case) is #SEQUELSERIES, a group of events being organized by local duo Tegan and Holly. On March 9th, they’re screening Grease 2, the 1982 sequel starring Michelle Pfeiffer (and written by Canadian Ken Finkleman). It was directed by Patricia Birch, the choreographer from the original Grease (and who more recently has choreographed several episodes of the television series Boardwalk Empire). They’ve also lined up surf-rock band The Space Dusters to play afterward, so you can dance the Frug wearing your saddle shoes and bobby socks. Tickets are a very reasonable $7 at the door (or $5 in advance, plus fees) and the venue is the very cool Cinecycle, which is also licensed.
I’ve never seen Grease 2, and I love the idea behind #SEQUELSERIES, so I’m seriously tempted to check it out. Small and innovative events like these make Toronto the greatest city in the world for movie lovers.
Upcoming screenings in the #SEQUELSERIES include Short Circuit 2 on May 11th and Troll 2 on July 13th. Unfortunately, the latter conflicts with my own Shorts That Are Not Pants screening, but don’t let that stop you!
I would totally go with you if you partake in GREASE 2.