Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical | Evolution in Battersea Park

Have you ever dreamed of stepping into your favourite film or TV series? Secret Cinema, in partnership with TodayTix, brings that fantasy to life by captivating audiences with immersive experiences that go far beyond traditional screenings. Previous successful productions include Back to the Future and Stranger Things. This year, Evolution in Battersea Park has been transformed into the vibrant world of Rydell High in Grease — the immersive movie musical.

The fan favourite movie set in the 1950s follows a summer romance between Danny Zuko (Liam Morris) and Sandy Olsson (Stephanie Costi) who unexpectedly reunite at Rydell High. Whilst Danny tries to maintain his tough-guy image, Sandy experiments with a new edgier personality to try and fit in. Now we get to experience the trials and tribulations of Rydell High first-hand as we step into the world of Grease.

It’s the first day of a new year at Rydell High and we were welcomed by Principal McGee, who wasn’t best pleased as we were not dressed in appropriate uniform. Noted, next time, Leather Jacket!  This truly one-of-a-kind experience encourages arriving early to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the 1950s. As you step inside, you’re greeted by the sights, sounds, and smells of carnival games and numerous eateries. Bars serve up cocktails, fairground rides are aplenty, and there are numerous photo opportunities throughout. From hot dogs and pizza to Mexican cuisine, the variety is impressive if extortionately priced (£13 for a hot dog); however, it would be beneficial if the eateries were more closely themed to the show to further enhance the immersive atmosphere.

As the showing starts on the big screen, we are ushered inside to fully immerse ourselves in Rydell High. From this point onward, no photos or videos are allowed, as expected—it’s Secret Cinema, after all. Some surprises are best kept just that way, but you can expect to experience all the iconic locations from the movie. Locations such as the Rydell Autoshop and the Drive-In are set around the perimeter of a huge gymnasium, where most of the action takes place. Tom Rogers’ design is a sight to behold. While there isn’t much available seating unless you purchase a VIP ticket, you are free to roam inside and out as you please, with great views across the site. Whether you want to be up close and personal for ‘Greased Lightning’ or sit back and take it all in at Frosty’s Diner, there is something for everyone.

It isn’t always clear where to focus within the space, and it takes a while to realise that the action is happening live alongside the musical being played on film. The Beauty School and Upper Gym are located above the main entrance, but few people seemed to explore these areas or know where to go next. Between some numbers, there are pauses and cutaway scenes that slightly disrupt the flow, but these moments give the audience a chance to rehydrate and reposition for the next scene or number. When there isn’t a musical number on screen, the cast tends to wander around without lip-syncing the dialogue. This worked well during interactions with the audience, but at times, you might find yourself waiting for something to happen—and nothing does. Audience participation is encouraged but only to the level you’re comfortable with, with a variety of ticket types to suit your preference. There are plenty of opportunities to join the cast on stage, but for those who prefer to relax and take it all in, there is still much to appreciate.

As the film plays, musical numbers and key moments are brought to life in front of us by a talented cast portraying the familiar characters we all know. The sound balance can vary depending on where the action is taking place and where you are standing, but this is easily resolved. All the live performances are backed by an impressive live band on the ‘National Bandstand.’ The choreographed numbers (Jennifer Weber) beautifully pay tribute to the iconic style and energy of the 1950s, capturing the era’s signature moves and spirit, while seamlessly blending in contemporary influences that add a fresh, modern twist.

Stepping into the shoes of two of cinema’s most iconic roles is no easy feat, but Morris and Costi lead with remarkable skill. Both honour the legendary originals while bringing their own unique flair to the characters. Morris confidently captures Danny’s charmingly goofy nature, while Costi’s Sandy is perfectly innocent and demure, just as expected. A standout moment comes from Lucy Penrose as Rizzo, whose stunning rendition of “There Are Worse Things I Could Do” truly captivates the audience. The entire cast bursts to life in the glittering finale, filled with T-Birds and Pink Ladies immersing the audience so completely it feels like stepping right into the movie’s final fairground scene.

Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical is part of a three-year residency at Evolution in Battersea Park. Judging by this experience, audiences will no doubt be eagerly anticipating the next show. For now though, be sure to head down and soak up everything Rydell High has to offer. Directed by Matt Costain and packed with everyone’s favourite sing-a-long songs, it’s truly a perfect experience for those summer nights!

Grease: The Immersive Movie Musical is currently running at Evolution in Battersea Park until 07th September 2025.

Tickets and More Information

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Luke Dyson, Matt Crockett and Danny Kaan