Lose your blues and put on your dancing shoes, Garnet Valley’s Footloose is a show you don’t want to miss.
The musical was adapted by Dean Pitchford from the 1984 film of the same name, utilizing music and stage dance to truly bring the themes of rebellion and growth to life. The story follows Ren McCormack, a city boy who begrudgingly moves to a small town called Bomont. He is shocked to realize that dancing was banned after a tragic accident and attempts to unite his classmates to regain their right of expression through movement.
The entire cast completely immersed the audience in Footloose through their riveting energy and expressive acting. They perfectly exemplified Bomont’s development from strict and closed off to dynamic and unified. Character chemistry shined through balanced harmonies, filling the auditorium with the whimsy of teenage love. They had no challenge with the precise choreography; every spin and stomp was in sync, especially during “Footloose (Finale).”
Cole Miller (Ren McCormack) commanded the stage with his charismatic, powerful vocals. He absolutely delivered on the rebellious and witty role of Ren through his extensive range and choreographical flexibility. Further, Maddie Moore’s (Ariel Moore) emotional stage presence reflected on her misunderstood, trapped character. The chemistry between the pair was unmatched; the blend of their talents was truly “Almost Paradise.”
Rusty’s (Lauren Cusick) controlled vocals blended perfectly into the harmonies of Ariel’s friends during “Somebody’s Eyes.” Her expressiveness and comedic timing along with the temperamental, warm-hearted character of Willard Hewitt (Michael Stuardi) left the audience cackling. The extensive ensemble expertly utilized stage space with their presence during songs like “I’m Free / Heaven Help Me” and “Still Rockin’.” The precise harmonies within the group echoed in the theatre, as did the mesmerizing visuals of often difficult choreography.
The technical aspects of this show were no small feat. Each lighting and sound cue precisely called by Stage Manager Jack Johnston helped support the talent and emotions on stage. Transitions between scenes by the Run Crew were smooth and quick–even the fly bars moving in and out on stage were timed perfectly. The vibrant LEDs incorporated into the diner set coupled with the warm lighting during the scene completely mesmerized the audience. The seemingly simple set design contained specific, noticeable details that contributed to the musical as a whole, proving effective for the story progression.
Overall, the perseverance of the cast and crew of Garnet Valley reflected the themes of overcoming obstacles through expression. Their lively and energetic performance of Footloose left the audience humming catchy tunes and strolling out with a pep in their step.
