Broadway Parody ‘Vape’ Reimagines ‘Grease’ with Danny’s New Love Interest
Broadway’s latest offshoot, titled “Vape! The Grease Parody,” provides a contemporary twist on the classic musical “Grease.” This parody artfully critiques the original 1978 film while adapting its themes and characters for the modern audience.
Reimagining a Classic
Set in a 1950s high school, the musical captures today’s cultural shifts. Lara Strong, portraying Sandy, emphasizes the humor embedded in the story. “It highlights the absurd aspects of ‘Grease’,” she noted. The creators aim for affection with their mockery, according to Strong.
The Plot Changes
- The Pink Ladies are now called the Pink Squad.
- Smoking is replaced by vaping.
- A Prius takes the place of the iconic Greased Lightnin’ Ford.
- Friendships among male characters, Danny and Kenickie, take on a sexual fluidity.
Director Jack Plotnick pointed out the changes that resonate with today’s youth. “Teens have traded their cigs for vape pens,” he stated. The climax of “Vape” also deviates from the original ending, which has faced scrutiny for promoting unhealthy relationship dynamics.
Character Transformations
In the musical, Sandy decides she deserves better than to conform for Danny’s approval. She sings, “I’ve decided that Danny just doesn’t appreciate me for who I am.” This twist highlights the outdated notions reflected in the original film.
The cast humorously addresses age discrepancies seen in the original movie. For instance, while Stockard Channing was 33 during filming, her character Rizzo is depicted dealing with menopause rather than unexpected pregnancy in this new version.
Modern Dating Dynamics
- Marty, a character in the show, mentions going on 500 Tinder dates.
- Strong’s song “Hopelessly Devoted to You” is retitled “Hopelessly Gaslighted by You.”
- The male lead, Kenickie, emphasizes the importance of consent in the number “Green Lightnin.’”
Overall, “Vape! The Grease Parody” runs at Theater 555 on West 42nd Street until January 4. It offers a fresh perspective, poking fun at its predecessor while maintaining its heart. The cast invites audiences to enjoy a beloved story with a modern twist.
