Meet the cast of Grease! Andrea Arena as Cha Cha

GFO’s revival production of Grease begins previews next week at QPAC’s Lyric Theatre and we at AussieTheatre wanted to get to know the cast before the show commences its run!

Today we chat with Andrea Arena, who will be tearing up the floor as the feisty Cha Cha. Andrea is a graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts Secondary School (VCASS) and has also trained at Jason Coleman's Ministry of Dance. She most recently appeared in the Australian and Asian tour of WICKED…

What do you think it is about Grease that people love so much? 

The well known songs, the amazingly written script and all the one-liners from the movie!

Tell us a little about your character – Cha Cha

Cha Cha is always in control of everyone and everything. She thinks she is better than everyone else and she makes it known. She's aggressive and feisty but also passionate. Some would call her 'a bitch'.

What is your favourite song in the show?

Rizzo singing 'There Are Worse Things I Could Do'. The best song in the show!

When you were at high school, were you cool enough to be a T-Bird or a Pink Lady? 

Ummm… Definitely 🙂
Cool enough to be a T-Bird!

What's the most challenging thing about this show? 

Singing and dancing at the same time. The dancing requires a lot of energy and attention so it is hard to sing at the same time with all of that going on!

What's the best thing about the performing arts community in Australia? 

So many people support the performing arts, including people in the business world, and [the actor's union] Equity. You are always able to ask questions and know that there is support for you if necessary. Also, learning from older cast mates by example.

What advice would you give to up and coming performers? 

During rehearsal, take notes not only on your parts but everyone around you! Concentrate, keep your body fit and don't stop having singing lessons!

What's the most embarrassing thing that's ever happened to you on stage? 

Falling flat on my face while doing WICKED! I went down and as my hat fell off, the whole audience saw my wig cap! Not a pretty sight!

If you weren't treading the boards in Grease, what would you be doing?  

I'd be working as a commercial dancer in Melbourne, doing hip hop and teaching dance on the side.

What are some of your dream roles?

To be in CHICAGO would be a dream!

Grease will be playing at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC from 20 August. Visit greaseistheword.com.au for more details!