Footloose

Like many Societies, Newtown M.T.C. suffered a huge blow when within a very few weeks of their production being staged, the show was axed due to Covid restrictions in 2019. Such a disappointment to the chosen Cast and everyone affiliated to this Company. Having said that, the Company bounced back with Shrek in 2022 and Made in Dagenham in 2023. Footloose though was never off the list and it was great to witness this production in 2024 which I can tell you was well worth waiting for. There seemed to be an influx of youngsters for this production who were eager and keen to face up to the challenge of this popular Musical.

The set was adequate and the Director used the bridge with descending steps both right and left to full advantage. A great opening from the Chorus made us sit up and take note from the very beginning. This was a fast paced musical with plenty of opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their talents in whatever capacity was required.

Ren McCormack, who with his mother Ethel had moved from buzzing Chicago to the small town of Bomont, life was a game changer for the youngster. Ren was in the capable hands of young Adam Jones. What a characterisation of this enviable role, it was as if the part had been written solely for Adam. He shone in all aspects of Musical Theatre and brought such energy to the role ‘I Can’t Stand Still’ led the company in many ensembles, it made my eyes water. Excellent work! Ren was partnered well by Katy Collins as Ariel who gave us the impression she wasn’t all as goody-goody as she seemed on the surface, being a Reverend’s daughter, good interpretation. Ariel’s friends, ‘Rusty’, ‘Urleen’ and ‘Wendy Jo’ were all enthusiastically played by Jasmine Anderson, Abby Brunt, and Macy Stephens respectively, adding much to the production both individually and collectively.

Polished performance from Mike Clarke as Rev. Shaw Moore who has a huge influence on what goes on in the town, hence no dancing etc. Mike brings out the frustrations of the character, his ‘Heaven Helps the Man’ was memorable.  Another first class performance from Chris Clarke as Vi Moore trying to mediate at times between her husband the Rev and their daughter Ariel. I liked the contribution from Kristen Roach-Harris as Ethel McCormack, Ren’s mother. Excellent portrayal of the slow laid back cowboy from Oliver Jones as Willard Hewitt, who after an altercation with Ren on his first day at school regarding dancing, becomes best buddy with Ren. Great dancing later in the show Willard. Another fine characterisation from Owen Nelson as Chuck Cranston, Ariel’s jilted boyfriend who seems to improve his stage craft each time I see him, well done.

There are many minor roles and one liners in this piece, all perfectly presented. The Ensemble/Chorus pulled out all the stops each time they appeared and the choreography was ground-breaking and fresh. It was evident that attendance at rehearsals had been a success.

Stage crew were well managed with smooth changes of scenery and all lighting and sound cues were spot on. No pauses or prompts the night, I was there and full credit to the Class of 2024 for bringing to our attention this interesting musical. Congratulations to the Three Musketeers as mentioned in the credits above, together with anyone who contributed to a very successful Production. Thank you all once again for your invitation and hospitality.

This is the opinion of the Reviewer.  

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