Footloose

Testudo has come on leaps and bounds if “Footloose“ is anything to go by!

As soon as the curtain went up at Colyton Town Hall and the Company began to sing you just knew this was going to be a cracker of a show and they certainly did not disappoint. Jordan Buckland as Ren did exceptionally well, a natural actor with singing, dancing, great American accent, together with good delivery and timing had it all! Alongside him was Jess Hill as Ariel, what a singing voice! She sang “Holding Out for a Hero” so well; it was a show stopper!

Ben Malone as Willard looked and played the role very convincingly that you really began to feel sorry for him as he claimed he couldn’t dance. His portrayal of “Mama says” was a triumph! Ryan Letten as Chuck, did a great job as the menacing and dominant boyfriend. I understand this was his first show I’m sure it’s not going to be the last! Verity Rudge as Rusty, Emma Page as Wendy Jo, and Caraliegh Bradley as Urleen had great singing voices with matching enthusiasm and came over well. The Reverend Shaw Moore played by Geoff Chappell gave a performance that was not only convincing but made it his own, with sensitivity, skill and a lot of light and shade. Just right.

Lauren Weber as Vi Moore, the minister’s wife, also played the role with great understanding, supporting sympathetically, both her daughter, Ariel, and her husband. Lauren’s song “Can you Find It in your Heart” came over well. Ethel played by Lou Pottinger looked the part and did great as Ren‘s Mother. Matt Lockett as Coach; him you wouldn’t want to cross as you get more press-ups to do! …a job well done! James Windsor as Eli/Cowboy Bob did well, as did Debbie Bradley as Lulu/Cop. Harry Lockett as Uncle Wes was a little young for the role, but taking it on at the 11th hour was admirable and he put his all into it. The Principal (Adam Tedbury) did a super job with good facial expressions. Amelia Speers as Lily along with Clare Lees as Betty Blast did well.

The Band was extremely good. They kept the sound low when required with plenty of light and shade and are to be congratulated for the super sound they made, headed by Stephanie Dommett MD (her first attempt at this role) .Wonderful! Choreography was arranged by a group of which made for a variety of styles, no bad thing.

Debbie Bradley has everything to be proud of with a cast to envy. To see so many young people on stage is very encouraging for the future of Testudos. Many congratulations to all concerned. A show that had simply everything, acting and singing at its best.

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