While nothing can hold a candle to how awesome watching lovebirds Danny and Sandy ride off into the sky on a convertible was, “Grease Live!” came pretty darn close.

The special aired on Jan. 31 on the FOX network and it is still available to watch on FOX’s website in case you missed the original airing.

It was truly a spectacular production. Audiences were a little worried about it, having seen past live productions of musicals like “The Sound of Music” in 2013, also made by FOX, and being severely disappointed in the choice of actresses (mainly Carrie Underwood of “American Idol” fame and her lack of acting skills).

This could not be said for “Grease Live!” Almost every actor and actress performed their heart out. Each conveyed their character perfectly.

If you were looking for the best musical scenes to watch, two especially stood out.
The first was Aaron Tveit (“Graceland”), who starred as Danny Zuko, singing “Greased Lightning.” Tveit’s stage presence and dance moves blew audiences away. Tveit’s portrayal of Danny surprised audiences because they were used to him playing more bland characters, such as his role as Enjolras in the 2012 adaptation of “Les Miserables.” His bold and wildly energetic character was a shocking and amazing surprise. Playing Danny in the production of “Grease Live!” showed the world just how broad this man’s talent is and will continue to be.

The second talent that stunned audiences and had the Internet talking even a week after the premiere was Vanessa Hudgens (“Spring Breakers”) as Betty Rizzo. Although her acting was not quite as edgy as it should have been, her performance of “There Are Worse Things I Could Do” was a truly emotional and moving one.

Having lost her father to stage four cancer just a day before taking center stage for “Grease Live!” mixed her powerhouse vocals with raw emotion. It was certainly an applause-worthy role. Hudgens gave the performance of her life clearly overshadowing her performances in the “High School Musical” franchise. It is truly a scene to behold even if you are not a fan of the musical genre.

Overall, “Grease Live!” struck an emotional chord with most audiences. The performances of the cast lived up to the original musical’s name. One can only hope that FOX’s next live performance can live up to “Grease Live!”
Rating: 4 out of 5