Opening Night: 'Grease' Cast Gelling In More Ways Than One

When the curtain goes up on 'Grease' Saturday to begin a two-weekend run at The Landmark in Port Washington one thing seems sure — there will be some serious gelling going.

After weeks of preparation for the community theater production by the Harbor Musical Theater Company, the tightly-knit group of professional and amateur performers appear to have bonded in a way that is evident in their respect and admiration for other cast members who were mostly strangers to each other just a few short months ago.

"The whole team just gells together," says Rhonda Kahan, a professional singer from Rosyln who brings years of performance experience to the Port Washington  stage in her role as Rizzo. "It's the nicest cast I've ever worked with."

Harbor Musical Theater Company, the musical theater division within Port Washington Play Troupe, will present the show at the Landmark on Main Street’s Jeanne Rimsky Theater through July.

The show is being done by adults all over 30. Kahane, a Long Island native, says it adds a different flavor to the production. "It's a very unique take and not what you're expecting."

Directed by Brian Long with musical direction by David Barnett, the characters in the show revisit their greased-up youth at the 25th Reunion of the Class of '59, performing the original book, music and lyrics by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey.

Robert DiNoto, who plays Kennicke says the show provides a fun atmosphere to be around.

A commercial real estate developer and six-year Lloyd Harbor resident originally from Garden City, DiNoto said he's relishing his return to the stage after 16 years away.

With performances of 'Oklahoma," How To Succeed In Business Without Even Trying," "Pippin" and "42 Street" on his resume, DiNoto said the lure of "Grease" was tempting but the experience has been rewarding.

"I always wanted to be in "Grease" so I figured I'd go for it," said DiNoto. "It's a lot more work than I remember. It's very time consuming, but I'm sure it will all be worth it." 

DiNoto says it's worth a trip to Port Washington to see the show. "If you're not doing anything in the next couple of weeks come see 'Grease,' it will be fun." 

Kim Kaiman of Great Neck will be playing a leading role as Sandy.

Performance dates and times are: Saturday, July 20 at 8 p.m.; Two shows Sunday, July 21 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m; Friday, July 26 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, July 27 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, July 28 at 8 p.m. 

Tickets for all 8 p.m. performances are $20. Matinee shows at 2 p.m. are $20 for general public and $10 for seniors and children. For ticket information go online the Port Washington Play Troupe website.