On Wednesday, July 11, it’s time for all you cool cats to roll up your sleeves and dust off your bobby socks for an unforgettable night of singing and dancing. As part of the “Movies Under the Stars” free summer film series, Grease will be screened in beautiful Pier A Park in Hoboken.
But that’s not all! The night includes a sing-along to the hit movie, a karaoke contest, a costume contest, and more.
Dress like Danny or Sandy
The festivities for “Grease Fest” start at 7 p.m. in the park. Whether or not you are interested in the costume contest, everyone is encouraged to dress in their best ’50s garb. A prize will be awarded for “Best Costume” and attendees participating should dress as their favorite T-Bird or Pink Lady.
In addition, developers Tarragon and URSA’s Upper Grand will provide Grease cardboard cutouts for people to take fun movie-themed pictures.
According to Geri Fallo, director of Cultural Affairs in Hoboken, she wanted to add a classic film to the screenings this year. Fallo said they picked Grease because of its cult popularity.
“I know the movie is really popular,” said Fallo. “We wanted to show an old film, and it seemed appropriate. It is popular. And when you go to wedding – who knew that it is a big thing at weddings?”
In addition to dressing up like a favorite character, the audience is encouraged to sing-along to the soundtrack. “I’m excited,” said Fallo. “I think it will be a really fun event.”
Be an idol
Those looking for more action will have a chance to strut their stuff during the Grease Idol portion of the night. There will be a Grease karaoke contest from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sign-up begins at 7 p.m. (by the screen) and the winners will be determined by a jury.
The karaoke portion of the night will be hosted by none other than Chuck Chamalian of Evil John Entertainment, a popular karaoke company that provides entertainment at local bars. Singers are encouraged to practice their best movie song including: “Summer Nights,” “Greased Lightning,” “Hopelessly Devoted to You,” and others.
Immediately following the contest, prizes will be awarded. Prizes will be given in three categories: “Best Duet,” “Best Male Vocalist,” and “Best Female Vocalist.” In keeping with the night’s theme, Johnny Rockets, the fifties style diner on Washington Street in Hoboken, will award gift certificates.
In addition, Tunes, the music and movie store in Hoboken, will also award a gift certificate. Other prizes will be announced on July 11.
Following the ceremony, Grease will be screened.
And…
At other movie nights there will be activities as well. On Aug. 15 for the screening of Happy Feet, there will be entertainment. Mr. Taxi Tricks will juggle, ride a unicycle, eat fire and more.
On Aug. 22 for the screening of Flushed Away, Jim Reynolds the clown will entertain kids of all ages with his balloon sculptures.
The Devil Wears Prada and Stranger Than Fiction have been rescheduled for August (see sidebar).
The free movie screenings are sponsored by Mayor David Roberts, the City of Hoboken, Projected Images of Hudson County, the Hudson County Division of Cultural Affairs, and Tarragon and URSA’s Upper Grand. Other generous sponsors include: TD Banknorth, Renaissance Realty, The Dubliner and RiverWest Plumbing & Heating Supplier.
Funding was made possible in part by a Block Grant from the State/County Partnership Program for the Arts administered by the Hudson County Division of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, Tom DeGise, County Executive & the Board of Chosen Freeholders.
The movie schedule is subject to change due to rain. The movies are only part of the free summer events. In addition, there are free concerts, fitness workouts, family events, kayaking on the Hudson, and theater.
For more information, call (201) 420-2207 or visit: www.hobokennj.org. For more information about area karaoke, visit: www.eviljohninc.com.
Comments on this piece can be sent to: current@hudsonreporter.com.
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS
Every Wednesday, there are free movies in Pier A Park in Hoboken. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and a picnic. All movies start at sunset. For more information, visit: www.hobokennj.org.
July 11 – Grease
July 18 – Little Miss Sunshine
July 25 – Shut Up & Sing
Aug. 1 – Hollywoodland
Aug. 15 – Happy Feet
Aug. 22 – Flushed Away, Devil Wears Prada Aug. 29 – Charlotte’s Web, Stranger Than Fiction