Tauranga woman stars in Grease

Tauranga woman Hannah Spedding has nabbed the lead role of Sandy in a national travelling production of Grease.

The original film screened in 1978 and was dubbed the most successful movie musical of all time. The story features wholesome exchange student Sandy, played by Olivia Newton-John and a leather-clad bad boy Danny, John Travolta.

Ms Spedding, 24, said it would be her first lead role.

Originally, she was cast in the ensemble when the lead pulled out. Ms Spedding put her hand up for the role.

"This time I have a chance to show what I can do. Sandy, she is such an iconic character. It's cool to bring my own talent and flare to the role. It's really exciting."

Grease would be her fourth production with The Court Theatre after being in The Mikado, TomTom's Musical Adventure and Mary Poppins over the last few years.

Grease was shaping up to be her favourite so far, she said.

Naturally a redhead, Ms Spedding had her hair dyed blonde for the production.

"I'll have the classic front fringe bangs like Sandy for the role, coupled with tight high waisted black pants, a leather jacket, and very high heels."

Graduating from the National Academy of Singing and Dramatic Art with a Bachelor of Performing Arts in Music Theatre in 2013, she had been travelling wherever the work took her.

The former Tauranga Girls' College student had three siblings who all grew up with a love and passion for musical theatre.

She did her first show when she was five and had been performing ever since.

"I love that I get to play, I get to pretend to be other people. It's very exciting. It's not a mundane office 9am to 5pm job. You are always on your feet and doing something different."

Ms Spedding was currently based in Auckland, living out of a suitcase, rehearsing for the play which starts November 2.

Grease rehearsals currently meant she was rehearsing six days a week 9am to 5pm but she was excited to start the tour which would take her from Kerikeri to Invercargill over six weeks.

Ms Speeding said the production would have a few fun extras added to it.

"All the essential story line is all there, but there are a few extra songs, and extra elements throughout the script."

But all the favourites would still be there, she said.

Ms Spedding would head back to her parents' home in Gate Pa once she had finished the production but was looking forward to travelling and more opportunities next year.

"Being on stage, singing, dancing and acting. That is what I enjoy doing."

Grease will feature at Baycourt November 8 and 9 from 8pm.

For more information head to Baycourt head here