Alright everyone, let’s cut loose and talk about “Footloose”! This classic musical had me tapping my toes and humming along at City Academy’s Wednesday Company’s recent production. While it may not be reinventing the wheel, this show is pure, unadulterated fun that’ll have you kicking off your Sunday shoes in no time. (Please excuse my awkward “Footloose” puns here but I couldn’t stop myself)
From Chicago to Bomont
The story follows Ren McCormack, portrayed by the spirited Navin Nair, as he relocates from bustling Chicago to the sleepy town of Bomont. Here, Ren finds himself at odds with the town’s strict laws, particularly the ban on dancing, and sets out to challenge the narrow-minded Town Council and the local preacher, Reverend Shaw Moore, played with a commanding presence by Roopak Radia.
Vocals That Shine
I must admit, some of the cast’s vocals occasionally lacked the punch I hoped for. However (surprisingly) the performers in roles of adults more than made up for it with their robust voices. Reverend Moore’s solo in the first act (“Heaven Help Me”) was particularly moving, striking a chord with its emotional depth. A special mention must go to Charlotte Emerson as Vi Moore. Her rendition of “Can You Find It in Your Heart” was simply exquisite, her delicate vibrato adding a touching layer to the performance.
The trio of Bomont girls – Rusty (Emma Gemoli), Urleen (Juliette Wiggins), and Wendy Jo (Folu Oyewole) – were an absolute delight. Their performance in “Somebody’s Eyes” was a standout moment, their voices blending beautifully, creating a soulful and captivating sound that lingered long after the final note.
Spectacular Dance Numbers
The big dance numbers, including “Holding Out for a Hero,” and “Footloose,” were visually spectacular. While the stage felt a tad crowded during these numbers, the choreography was vibrant and full of life, making it impossible not to tap your feet along with the beat. The cast even managed to incorporate some roller-skating in between the whole acting and dancing crowd. Impressive!
Comedic Highlights
Ren’s journey to overturn the town’s anti-dancing law is punctuated by delightful moments, such as Willard (the adorably awkward Petro El Hage) learning to dance in “Let’s Hear It for the Boy.” The comedic timing and endearing clumsiness of this scene had the audience laughing and cheering along.
Chris Kitchener-Wright’s portrayal of Chuck, the show’s antagonist, along with his sidekicks (Andrea Giovagnoli and Oliver Raizon), brought a campy villain vibe that was both entertaining and reminiscent of classic bad-guy tropes—think Malfoy, Crabbe, and Goyle from Harry Potter.
Chemistry Concerns
While Navin Nair gave a commendable effort in the lead role, his chemistry with Ariel (Micaela Abreu) felt more like a sibling relationship than a romantic one, especially in the second act’s scene on the bridge. Nair’s talent shone through, though, but I couldn’t help but remember his epic, more flamboyant roles—perhaps a future in more camp productions is calling!
Costume Creativity
Costume-wise, the second act’s frilly dresses and even the reverend’s classy nightgown were on point, adding an extra layer of authenticity and fun. However, the first act’s opening plain black costumes seemed a bit out of place for such a vibrant show; a splash of colour could have amplified the energy of those scenes.
Despite a few technical hiccups with lighting and microphones—par for the course in the world of amateur dramatics—the overall experience was a heartwarming and fun-filled evening.
I think it could do with a couple of extra weeks of rehearsals and the show would get to a smooth vocal perfection. But all in all, City Academy’s “Footloose” is a spirited reminder that sometimes, all you need is a little music and dance to bring a community of like-minded amazing people together.
FOOTLOOSE Stage Adaptation by DEAN PITCHFORD and WALTER BOBBIE
Performed by City Academy
Based on the Original Screenplay by Dean Pitchford
Music by TOM SNOW
Lyrics by DEAN PITCHFORD
Additional Music by ERIC CARMEN, SAMMY HAGAR, KENNY LOGGINS and JIM STEINMAN
This amateur production of FOOTLOOSE is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd.www.concordtheatricals.co.uk
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