By: Adelaide Wynne, Absegami High School, Galloway
PALMYRA — Kick off your Sunday shoes cause you gotta cut loose at Palmyra High School’s production of Footloose — a fun filled show that had us clapping in beat from stage to seat!
Footloose was originally written in 1980 by Dean Pitchford and later released in 1984 with the stage production hitting the scene 4 years later in 1988. This fictional town of Bomont and its law that banned dancing was, in fact, based upon a true town in Oklahoma called Elmore City.
The fictional town of Bomont, though, is where the real story comes to life. Moving in from Chicago, newcomer Ren McCormack is in shock when he discovers the small Midwestern town he now calls home has made dancing and rock music illegal. As he struggles to fit in, Ren faces an uphill battle to change things.
Palmyra’s production was a good example of what makes high school theatre unique. With the energy of the ensemble mixed with the soaring vocals from the leads, connecting with the audience was a simple task for this cast. This group of performers had the audience engaged with all elements of the story, from the cast to the technical aspects, along with the help of a brand new auditorium, they really delivered!
Ariel Moore’s performance had us begging for “Moore.” Played by Calista Stamato, her palpable energy was felt through the audience and her stand out vocals truly shone in numbers like “I Need a Hero” And “The Girl Gets Around.” Aiden Quesnel brought the character of Ren McCormack to life, and with him, an onslaught of talent. The town council scene where Ren has his final attempt to bring back music and dance to this community was given its justice with his adaptation.
The ensemble in this production not only lifted the leads to greater heights, but highlighted their talents and strengths as well. Olivia Gallagher, who played Rusty, was a wonderfully well-rounded performer. Her comedic timing was unmatched, and she brightened up the stage with her cheery nature. RJ Watson as Travis was a lively and necessary edition to this show. The energy that his character brought to every scene he was in is something every great production needs.
This year, Palmyra High School was given the chance to have their theater renovated with not only new seating, but new lighting and more. With the newly added lighting system, Palmyra was able to make every ballad scene and song pop with color and set the mood for a good time! The scene changes made by the crew were very quick and snappy. With the use of tracks in a show like this, it can be difficult to get the timing correct for the lights to come up and start the scene, but the Footloose lighting crew made it all a breeze. These technical elements altogether wholly encompassed the essence of the show.
What more could you ask for — “fun footwork,” a super supporting cast, lively leads, and a track to make you tap your toes and shake your feet. Palmyra High School’s rendition of Footloose has all you need and it’ll make you scream: “Let’s dance!”
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