Footloose

Thank goodness that dancing is allowed in Rotherham, as Wickersley Youngstars took to the towns Civic Theatre with an excellent and energetic production of Footloose. 

Based on the classic  80s film starring Kevin Bacon, the show tells the story of Ren McCormack, who moves to Beaumont where dancing has been made illegal by the local Reverend  following his sons death. 

In the role of Ren, Wickersley Youngstars struck gold with 18 year old Kieron Richards. With great acting and excellent dancing, Kieron really owned the stage.

Abigail Johnson played Ren’s love interest Ariel Moore. Abigail portrayed the rebellious teenager with such passion and realism that made you think she really had been raised by an overprotective father. Her duet with Kieron ‘Almost Perfect’ was a highlight of the evening. 

Willard Hewitt was brilliantly played by Joe Wood. Joe had the whole audience laughing in the aisles with his antics, especially during the number ‘Let’s Hear it For The Boy’ where he is comically trying to dance. 

Jonah Thomson proved yet again what a fine actor this young man is. Following on from his portrayal of Edna in last year’s Hairspray, this year he is seen as the Reverend Shaw Moore. Jonah managed to convincingly portray the Reverend trying to come to terms with his sons death, and delivered his monologue at the end of the show with so much feeling, that there was hardly a dry eye in the house. 

However the star of the show for me was Bethan Carter as Rusty Rodriquez. From her first entrance to the last, Bethan was every inch the diva we come to expect in this role. Bethan has fabulous stage presence and is a true triple threat performer. I can’t wait to see this young lady in future roles. 

There were some strange lighting designs at times, but on the whole the show was a feast for the eyes. With stunning sets, wonderful costumes and brilliant performances, the future of amateur theatre in Rotherham is in very good hands. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.