Meanwhile, Sandy and Danny, decked out in black leather, prepare to break into song as Grease builds towards its rollicking climax.

These classic movie scenes are among 16 iconic silver screen moments brought to life in a quirky photographic project starring a group of spirited Illawarra seniors.

Led by Wollongong City Council, Golden Oldies: Screen Dreams in Pictures was created with the support of United Aged Care Farmborough Heights, the Silver Belles Dance Group and a number of local seniors.

Sarah Esplin, of Farmborough Heights, gave Olivia Newton-John a run for her money, playing Sandy in a thoroughly authentic recreation of a scene from Grease.

The beaming 98-year-old described her joy at stepping into the role, right down to the bright red toe and fingernails.

‘‘It was quite exciting, it was a great experience and I really enjoyed it,’’ she said.

For Bulli woman Joan Davison, 75, slipping into Liza Minnelli’s fishnets as Sally from Cabaret was a dream come true.

‘‘I have always wanted to have black hair, and I’ve always wanted to sing and dance,’’ she said.

‘‘A lot of my family were in the entertainment business and sing or play an instrument and I never could, so I’m living out my fantasy.’’

Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery said the project showed you were never too old to have fun.

‘‘Forget the old adage about growing old quietly,’’ he said.

‘‘I love the fact these people have come together and created something special that’s also entertaining and a little bit cheeky.’’

The group of 46 seniors, aged 51 to 98, recreated the 16 iconic scenes with the help of council officers, a professional photographer and makeup artist.

The photos will be on display in Wollongong Central during Seniors Week, March 16-29, and can also be viewed on council’s website.

‘‘Anyone who sees these images will smile – it’s impossible not to,’’ Cr Bradbery said.

‘‘It’s so clear from the photographs that the participants are having fun.’’