Footloose the Musical
Produced by Blenheim Musical Theatre
Director – Liz McKay
Musical director – Steve Campbell
Choreographer – Elly Molloy
Until 24 May
ASB Theatre Marlborough
Reviewed by Kineta Knight
There’s something undeniably infectious about Footloose the Musical – a bold and entertaining adaptation of the 1984 film that brings the spirit of rebellion, community, and rhythm to the stage in technicolour.
With its irresistible soundtrack, punchy ensemble choreography, and surprisingly heartfelt story, this production delivers a feel-good night at the theatre that leaves the audience grooving along to the music in their seats.
Set in the small town of Bomont, the plot centres on Ren (James Dight), a spirited teenager from Chicago who relocates with his mother following his father’s abandonment. He arrives in a community steeped in tradition and ruled by a strict moral code – a local law that bans dancing. Dight, at just 15-years-old, is a talent to watch. His monologue with Reverend Shaw (Spencer Kingi) was a stand-out. Raw, heartfelt, passionate.
It was great to see Kingi on stage again. The last time I witnessed this incredible talent was well over 20 years ago. What a voice! The company number in the church brought about a truly moving experience, amplified by spectacular sound.
Anne Vawter (Vi) and Nadia Campbell (Ethel). What a duo. Notably in Learning to be silent, and Vawter was able to shine once more in Can you find it in your heart.
Other exceptional personalities were the friends of Ariel (Nadia Zintl), Carolie Andrew (Rusty), Ainsley Bell (Wendy Jo), and Jess Sinclair (Urleen), but especially Bell. She brought sass and wit to the stage. Very entertaining.
We were fortunate enough to see Zintl, Ariel’s understudy, take on this lead role with ease. Beautiful voice and top-notch dancing. Well done.
The opening of Act 2 was a real treat to hear the superb cohesion between the orchestra and sound desk. A production highlight, I’d say.
Vita Vaka (Cowboy Bob) brought such charisma to this production and was an absolute delight to watch. And Lyriks Caldwell (Willard) was the star of the show in Mama says.
The set is an interesting beast. It’s a character all on its own, as each scene required a different setting. It worked well to have a team of dedicated set movers stationed on stage throughout the entire production. Impressive stuff.
Musically, this show was nostalgia at its best. With hits like Let’s hear it for the boy, Holding out for a hero, and of course Footloose.
Albeit never a fan of triangle, semi-circle or line company placement, hand acting, or restless feet, no one else would have noticed. This production is local talent at its best, and each member of the cast and production team have put in an incredible amount of hours and effort into making it a show they should be proud of.
