Love is in the air as Whakatāne High School prepares to bring the Elvis-inspired musical All Shook Up to the stage.

Packed with classic hits including Jailhouse Rock, Heartbreak Hotel and A Little Less Conversation, the jukebox musical combines familiar songs with a light-hearted story full of romance, comedy and adventure.

Director Sue Clarke said the production was the perfect choice for the school’s performers.

“It’s got all the Elvis songs on it, all slightly different to what you would hear Elvis singing them,” she said.

Set in a small Midwestern town in the 1950s, the story begins when Chad, a guitar-playing drifter, rides into town on his motorcycle.

In a place where music, dancing and excitement have been pushed aside by strict rules, Chad’s arrival shakes things up and sparks a series of unexpected events.

Clarke describes the show as colourful, energetic and full of fun, while praising the cast and creative team for their hard work throughout rehearsals.

“The singing is amazing,” she said.

Many of the performers have worked together in previous productions, helping create strong chemistry, both on and off the stage. Cast members said the close-knit group had made the rehearsal process especially enjoyable.

Asked to describe the show in three words, the cast said: “cheesy, romance, fun.”

The performers also highlight the show’s humour, memorable characters and well-known songs as reasons audiences should come along.

“Everybody falls in love with everybody,” one cast member joked.

For those still deciding whether to attend, the cast had a simple message: “Just come. You'll have a good time.”

With lively dance numbers, colourful costumes, strong vocals and a soundtrack packed with Elvis classics, All Shook Up promises an entertaining night of music, laughter and romance.

The show opens on Saturday, June 20 at the Whakatane Little Theatre, and closes on July 2. Tickets are on sale now and can be found on the school’s Facebook page.

Ticket giveaway
■ The Beacon has a double pass to give away to All Shook Up. To enter, email
[email protected]. Entries close at noon on Monday, June 15, and the winner will be notified by email.