Footloose The Musical

Footloose The Musical
Based on the original screenplay by Dean Pritchard; Adaptation by Dean Pritchard and Walter Bobbie; Music by Tom Snow and Lyrics Dean Pritchard. Javeenbah Theatre Co. Nerang, Gold Coast. Directed by Amy-Louise Anderson and Jocelyn Moore-Carter. May 23rd to June 7th, 2014

With a sell-out production on their hands, Javeenbah’s Footloose is fast paced, full of life and a sure-fire hit, led by “Pocket Rocket” Jackson Brash as Ren, Lauren Steiner as the rebellious Ariel, Jy Etherington as the awkward Farm Boy Willard, Nathan Skaines as the bigoted Rev Shaw Moore and a supporting cast of well rehearsed adults and youngsters.

The production team had two directors, two musical directors, Heidi Enchelmaier and Cassidy Mackie, and two choreographers, Kym Reynolds and Clay English and, instead of scenery, they chose a bare stage with a number of ‘cross shaped’ boxes which were rearranged to depict the various locations in the story line but unless one was familiar with the story it didn’t mean much. There were occasions where lyrics and dialogue were overshadowed by the M T Pit pre-recorded music but that didn’t detract from the overall production.

Energy levels, both on stage and in the audience were high and lasted throughout the post show party.

This ‘feel good’ production makes a lasting impression.

Roger McKenzie

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