Footloose the Musical

From the opening notes of “Footloose” to the last the energy shown by the performers had the audience screaming, clapping and stamping their feet to show their appreciation. Young Alasdair David Davidson in the lead role of rebellious Ren McCormack, despite battling glandular fever, was outstanding. His singing, whether in the upbeat numbers such as “I Can’t Stand Still” or in the more reflective numbers such as “Almost Paradise”, portrayed the changing moods of the character perfectly and his dancing was a joy to behold. Olivia Payne as Ariel Moore, the Reverend’s daughter was a perfect match as Ren’s love interest. She portrayed beautifully the character’s struggle between teenage girl on the verge of womanhood and faithful daughter. She had a good powerful voice shown to its best in the rock ballad “Holding Out For A Hero” but was able to show its softer side in the trio “Learning To Be Silent” with her and Ren’s mothers. Much of the comedy in the piece was engendered by Matthias Kremer’s portrayal as Ren’s shy friend Willard Hewitt and by Poppy Charteris as Ariel’s friend Rusty – their will they, won’t they romance had the audience in hoots of laughter. I particularly liked Poppy’s rendition of “Let’s Hear It For The Boy” and Matthias’s “Mama Says”. Good strong performances were given by Alan Macleod as Reverend Moore and Morna Eadie as his wife Vi. Morna’s rendition of “Can You Find It In Your Heart” was particularly touching. Another strong performance was given by Lesley Mitchell as Ren’s mother Ethel McCormack. Darren McMillan was very convincing as the bully-boy Chuck Cranston. Strong support was given by Caitlin Macleod (Urleen), Heather-Jane Davidson (Wendy-Jo), Carol Robertson and Alan Graham (Ren’s Aunt and Uncle Lulu and Wes Warnicker), Gerry Sutton (Coach Dunbar), Fiona McDonald (Eleanor Dunbar) and Eddie Docherty (Principal Clark). Mention too must be made of Sophie Marr’s cameo as the hilarious roller-skating diner owner Betty Blast and Pete Bullock Mckie’s country singer Cowboy Bob. The costuming was appropriate to each character. The set was relatively simple but effective allowing for no delays between the scene changes and leaving plenty of room for the energetic and beautifully choreographed company numbers. The singing and dancing from the 48 strong company – whether principal or ensemble – was of an extremely high standard. Congratulations - the standing ovation was well deserved.

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