Footloose

What this society manages to achieve on this small working space is nothing short of amazing. The whole production moved at fast pace in no small measure because of the well designed, constructed and painted set.

There were some very talented young people on stage and it was a pleasure to see some of them taking their first principal roles. I must mention that they were well supported by some more established members. The singing from principals, ensembles and chorus was confident throughout with some strong harmony singing.

Justine Matthews (Ariel) and Jenny Barlow-Jennings (Rusty) were impressive in their singing and acting as were Neil Lucas (Ren) and Andy Hooper (Willard). Justine and Jenny were joined in several numbers by Jane Cotterill (Urleen) and Karen Terry (Wendy Jo) to produce some good harmony singing. The same was true when Neil and Andy were joined by David Hellyer (Bickle), Haydn Greaves (Garvin) and Natasha Beckett (Jeter) in the number ‘Mama Says’.

The character of Reverend Shaw Moore is not an easy one to capture but James Gorton was ideal in both singing and acting. He was ably supported by Leanne Smith as his wife Vi. Ren’s mother, Ethel, was well played by Becky Easen and the trio ‘Learning to be Silent’ with Justine and Leanne was particularly effective. Martyn Cotterill was appropriately cast in the part of Chuck Cranston. There were also many important contributions from other members of the cast. The choreography was slick and well executed . Well done to everyone involved!

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