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Grease

A classic musical hits Houston, with Idol in tow

A A A Comments By Bob Ruggiero Thursday, Sep 3 2009

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Greasedoesn't provide a historically accurate view of the '50s. There's no Joe McCarthy, Korean War or race-specific water fountains. But so what? Thanks to the 1978 movie with John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, the saga of summer lovers Danny and Sandy, the T-Birds and Pink Ladies, and karaoke-ready songs such as "Hopelessly Devoted to You" and "Greased Lightning" are pop culture staples. Which, in turn, feeds demand for the stage version the movie was based on. And that kind of pull can help pick up some big-name talent - in this case, former American Idol winner Taylor Hicks as the Teen Angel. (Hicks will serenade beauty school dropouts at nearly all Houston dates, including this evening's performance.) Theatre Under the Stars presents the opening night of the nationally touring show at 8 p.m. Through September 20. Hobby Center, 800 Bagby. For tickets and information, call 713-558-2600 or visit www.tuts.com. $24 to $79.50.
Tuesdays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Saturdays, Sundays, 2 p.m.; Sun., Sept. 13, 7:30 p.m.; Sun., Sept. 20, 7:30 p.m. Starts: Sept. 8. Continues through Sept. 20, 2009