REVIEW: Footloose at The Everyman Theatre
Footloose the Musical opened to a packed house last night at The Everyman Theatre in Cheltenham.
The musical made famous by the film starring Kevin Bacon is set in the 80’s and follows the antics of the new boy in the West Virginian Town of Bomont who is shocked to learn that dancing has been banned as a consequence of a tragic accident in the past. Based on true events the story surrounds those people most affected by the tragedy and the repercussions on their lives.
We were treated to a fun evening of fast paced toe-tapping hits performed by a very talented cast. Not only were they singing and dancing throughout the energetic performance but also playing instruments live along the way. Luke Baker (Ren) and Hannah Price (Ariel) were excellent as the lovers fighting to become a couple against all odds. The other young stars of the show bring the whole production together effortlessly with an abundance of energy.
The stars of the show Gareth Gates and Maureen Nolan brought their own special elements to the show. The audience absolutely loved the classic “Holding out for a Hero’ and a group of ladies in their 70’s were still fanning themselves throughout the interval! Gareth played the hapless Willard with an endearing character who is capable of more than a few cool moves.
Maureen Nolan, as Ariel’s mother and wife of the strict Reverend never fails to give her all and is excellent in every performance I have ever seen here in. Her rendition of ‘Can you find it in Your Heart’ was particularly moving. She certainly seemed to enjoy the finale and showed us a few moves of her own.
Footloose runs until Saturday. Catch it if you can – it's a fun night out and the audience on Monday evening loved it.
Explore Gloucestershire
13 September 2016
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