THINK Grease, and chances are you'll think of big-quiffed John Travolta and super-sweet Olivia Newton-John in the most successful film musical of all time.

But this November two new kids on the block hope to make the iconic roles of Danny and Sandy their own.

Craig Saunders and Rhianon Mone lead a talented cast of local performers, who’re all now in the thick of rehearsals for Basingstoke Amateur Theatrical Society's production of Grease at The Haymarket.

It’s 18-year-old Rhianon's first show with BATS.

She commented: "It was nerve-racking when I had to sing Hopelessly Devoted to You in front of everyone for the first time. But they've all been really supportive, especially Craig. “It's just as well because we have to pretend to snog on stage!"

Rhianon certainly looks the part of shy Sandy, but don't be fooled - she has a competitive streak: "I love football! I've played since I was nine for girls’ teams Basingstoke Colts and Tadley Calleva."

Football has taken a back seat for the Farnborough Sixth Form student this year as she sets her sights on a performing career.

"I can't picture doing anything else! I started singing, dancing and acting at Stagecoach Saturday school when I was five. Last year I played Frenchy in BATS Next Gen's production of Grease and I’m hoping to audition for drama school soon.”

For now, Rhianon is enjoying the teamwork involved in bringing the fashions, slang and dance crazes of Rydell High School, 1959, to the stage.

She concludes: "We're all working hard to make Grease the best it can be. It should be a fantastic show!"

BATS’ Grease runs in The Haymarket from November 19-28.

Tickets: £22.50 adults, £14 children, with concessions for over 65s, full-time students and groups.

Box office: anvilarts.org.uk, 01256 844244.