Ravinia Musical Festival presents ” Sing Along Grease” reviewed by Frank Meccia

One of Chicago’s greatest music festival destinations is still producing outstanding entertainment, and I am surprised that so many young people remain unaware of this incredible place.

On Sunday, I was invited to see Grease: The Musical at Ravinia. Everyone remembers the beloved 1970s classic, which was made for about $6 million and went on to become an enormous box-office success. It was the perfect night for T-Bird black leather jackets, pink hair, and Pink Ladies jackets.

Hosted and emceed by Paul Lisnek, the evening began with plenty of energy as he warmed up the Ravinia crowd before the production. Sitting in Ravinia’s new pavilion, I was impressed by the sound and the movie-theater-quality screens.

For two hours, the audience sang along to favorites such as “Summer Nights,” “Look at Me, I’m Sandra Dee,” and “Greased Lightning.” Paul also welcomed several special guests, including the lead actors from Paramount Theatre’s production of Grease and one of the original T-Birds from the 1978 film.

All in all, it was a fantastic evening. Ravinia remains a wonderful family destination, with plenty of restaurants and places to eat, relax, and socialize. You can bring the family, meet up with friends, and make a complete evening of it. There are still great acts playing till September 23: Snoop Dogg, Tom Jones, Alabama, and many more. Every night till they close, there will be some great act playing.

One important warning: buy your tickets only through Ravinia’s official website. I accidentally found tickets for the same event through another online site priced at $400 each before realizing I was not on Ravinia’s official site. Be careful, shop smart, and do not overpay. Remember: www.ravinia.org

Ravinia also offers plenty of free parking and complimentary shuttle buses. Follow the signs along St. Johns Avenue to the designated parking areas. From the moment I parked until I reached Ravinia’s North Gate, the trip took only nine minutes.

For great music, food, and an unforgettable atmosphere, Ravinia is the word!