Sandwiched between the artistically and financially successful “Rat Pack Show” and the highly anticipated “Mary Poppins,” “Grease,” the fifties rock and roll chestnut, seems a bit dated and skimpy, but it still attracts “hopelessly devoted” fans to its nostalgic songs and humor.

Becca Andrews and Zach Trimmer play the Rydell High School summer sweethearts who discover that they are both going to the same high school. The problem is that Danny is the coolest guy in school, while Sandy is somewhat of a prude. Imagine a teenager in the fifties that doesn’t drink, smoke or pierce her ears. When she questions a character smoking, the reply is, “Hey, it ain’t gonna kill ya,” which gets a big laugh.

David Costa-Cabral’s costumes are right on, while Nate Bertone’s sets are a bit pedestrian, with characters appearing from the bindings of class yearbooks. (At first, I thought they were lockers).

The songs by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey include a few nice ballads mixed with strident rock songs that do little to challenge the singers. Director Kevin B. Hill keeps the action moving. He also choreographed a few good numbers, especially the familiar “Hand Jive.”

“Grease” has been around for a long time and has been performed by high schools, colleges and community groups everywhere. It is not much of a challenge for seasoned actors who play characters well below their given years. It is, however, a nice summer diversion and gets the most out of the hard working cast at Theatre-by-the-Sea.

“Grease” plays through July 19 at Theatre-by-the-Sea in Matunuck. Call 782-8587 for reservations.