Grease: You’re Not The One That I Want

There are so many types of advertising agencies that we rarely get a chance to talk about the niches. Today, that’s going to change with the news that theater ad agency Serino-Coyne has engaged in some serious false advertising. The ad for the new Broadway version of “Grease” that ran yesterday in the New York Post has several hi-level critics saying that they were “wild about the show,” while in reality, no one really like it. This new version of Grease features Max Crumm and Laura Osnes, who were cast by winning the NBC reality TV show “Grease: You’re the One That I Want.”

Critics are pissed including NY Post writer Joe Dziemianowicz who said, “Above them, the phrase “The one that I want!” appeared repeatedly, attributed each time to a publication or news agency, including the Daily News, The Associated Press and New York Magazine.” Dude. You do not want to piss off the Post. They will get you.

The ad also pissed off Nathan Hunt, VP and group creative director of Deutsch. “They’re suggesting everyone included has given this play a positive review.” Hunt goes on to say, “The ad is deceptive. Quotes are always considered an endorsement from the publication and its theater critic. Any critic misquoted is entitled to feel misrepresented.”

AP drama critic Michael Kuchwara has asked to have his name removed, but the agency came to their senses and pulled the ad before the action became necessary. See? It’s not just the big agencies that screw up.