In a revival of a beloved classic, Crawfordsville High School will present “Footloose: The Musical,” with performances Friday through Sunday in the Connie L. Meek Auditorium.
The musical is directed and choreographed by Lisa Warren and vocally directed by Jennie Swick. Performances are at 7 p.m. today and Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday.
With a legacy that dates back to its acclaimed 2012 rendition, “Footloose: The Musical” holds a special place in the hearts of the CHS community. The cast and crew are poised to surpass previous achievements and set a new standard of excellence.
Reflecting on her unique journey with the production, Warren shares her dedication to continuous improvement and adaptation. Having co-directed and choreographed the 2012 rendition, Warren embraces the challenge of revisiting the show with a fresh perspective.
With a cast of new talents, Warren navigates the learning curve of adapting to different students’ strengths, ensuring a dynamic and engaging performance.
“Footloose: The Musical” promises an electrifying soundtrack that will have audiences dancing in their seats. From the iconic title song “Footloose” to the empowering anthem “Holding Out For A Hero” and the heartwarming “Let’s Hear It For The Boy,” the musical transports audiences back to the vibrant 80s era.
However, Warren emphasizes that “Footloose” is more than just a dance musical. Drawing inspiration from Dean Pitchford, the writer for the original motion picture and musical adaptation, Warren highlights the profound themes of healing and resilience woven into the storyline. At its core, “Footloose” explores the journey of a man and his family and the new boy in town who, amidst their experiences of loss, find solace and support in each other, showcasing the power of human connection and resilience.
“My favorite part of being in this production is the empowering message that it holds,” said Thomas Bowling (Shaw). “Obviously, at face value, it’s a show about dancing being illegal, but on a deeper level, it talks about family and community and how important those two areas are for fostering growth.”
Bowling added, “The Reverend is a man in pain who is trying his best to rise above the difficult circumstances he has had to deal with. As a senior, change is all around me, and so, in my own way, I’m trying my best to maintain continuity when things are changing all over the place.”
During rehearsal process, the cast was challenged to find ways to connect with their character on a personal level to bring them to life on stage.
“My character is someone who enjoys dancing and doesn’t like staying still and not moving,” said Brenden Warren (Ren). “Anyone who knows me will think to themselves that’s Brenden alright.”
Devan Johnson (Ariel) said she can easily relate to her character’s attitude.
“I definitely am not afraid to clap back at people and I am told I may be a bit sassy at times,” Johnson said.
Cimbria Bowling (Vi) said her character is welcoming and motherly to everyone around her.
“I’m able to connect with her because of that,” she said.
Nivek Witt said becoming Chuck Cranston was a challenge.
“My character is different from who I am,” Witt said. “Chuck is hyper-masculine, and abusive, which is most definitely a challenge to wrap my head around.”
This production is dedicated to the memory of Mike McCord, who portrayed Chuck Cranston in the 2012 rendition at CHS. His legacy and impact on the theater and choir programs continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Tickets for “Footloose: The Musical” are priced at $8 for adults and $6 for students, and are available for purchase online at https://www.showtix4u.com/event-details/80641.
