For once, a network seems to be hearing
audience's cries for more positive and family-friendly programming. Grease:
You're the One That I Want debuted January 7th, on NBC and
provided clean, fun entertainment for the whole family.
Many a young musical theater hopeful has spent
time learning songs, memorizing dance routines and putting a jar's worth of
product into their hair all in the name of being the next to play Danny Zukko or
Sandy Dumbrowski in the perennially popular musical Grease. Director
David Ian, a ‘Simon-esque' legend of British theater, Kathleen Marshall, a
renowned producer and choreographer, and creator Jim Jacobs audition one
singer/dancer after another to find the stars for the next major production of
Grease.
Most of the young men and women who come to
audition have some experience singing and dancing have worked hard to get to
"Grease Academy" where they will receive further training in their roles. Some
are motivated by family and friends who support them and want to see them
realize their dreams. Others are motivated by a sheer love of performing and an
inability to imagine a life spent doing anything else.
When it comes time to determine who will move on
to the next round, the contestants who are left behind are visibly upset, but
don't lash out at judges in expletive-filled tirades (although several bleeped
words found their way into this episode in another scene.) They often promise
themselves they will work harder on their singing or dancing and continue to try
despite this devastating setback. The ones who do move on to the next round are
happy, but fully aware of the work that lies before them.
With any luck, Grease: You're the One That I
Want will enjoy a fantastic debut season. While it may not become the
juggernaut that is American Idol, it appeals to audiences of all ages and
celebrates some of the best of American culture. For its positive messages and
lighthearted entertainment, it is our Best of the Week.
Best TV Show
of the Week
The Parents
Television Council -
www.parentstv.org
