BWW Reviews: Eagle Theater's FOOTLOOSE Gives a Small Town a Reason to Cut Loose!

What happens when you take a dedicated team of hard working creative people who bring in some of the best theater talent in the Delaware Valley? Well, you get a caliber of artists that soar! Artistic Directors Ted Wioncek III and Ed Corsi team up with award winning director/choreographer Dann Dunn for their 2014 opening of their first Equity production.

This cast is seriously talented and serious about what they are doing on stage, but never for a moment do you ever suspect they aren't having the time of their lives infusing the whole production with a sense of urgency, and sheer joy. The cast is led by Sal Pavia in the role of Ren McCormack, the newcomer from Chicago, who sparks the kids in small town Bomont to challenge the town elders. Originally played by Kevin Bacon on film, the role of Ren is well matched to Pavia's talents and he makes the most of his time onstage with strong vocals and impressive interactions with his co-stars, particularly the spunky Cara Noel Antosca as Ariel, the headstrong preacher's daughter to whom he is instantly attracted. Antosca is honored to be Eagle's first Equity contract.

Footloose is the story of one family and one town's journey to overcome loss and grief. The story centers on a recently divorced Ethel and her spirited teenage son, Ren, as they move to a small town from the big city of Chicago to escape the emotional demons of their past. However, the small town of Bomont has its own emotional demons to exorcise. Upon Ren's arrival to the town he is considered a "negative" influence and troublemaker for his modern ideas of freedom and youthful exuberance.

The entire company turns in a winning performance with standout principal roles offered by Corey John Hafner who comes to life as Willard, Ariel's delightful trio of pals Rusty (Kimberly Suskind), Wendy Jo (Bethany McCall) and Urleen (Aliya Bowles). The adults Paul Weagraff (Reverend Shaw Moore), Deborah Jenkins (Vi) and Amy Armstrong (Ethel) are equally well suited for their prospective roles both vocally and in the acting department. Musical Highlights include "Learn to be Silent", Holding out for a Hero", "Let's Hear it for the Boy" and "Mamma Says". There's a palpable chemistry between Pavia and Antosca and their performance of "Almost Paradise." Of course the title song "Footloose" acts as a familiar climax for the occasion and delivers the goods.

FOOTLOOSE will run on selected dates through February 8. at the Eagle Theatre,208 Vine St. Hammonton, NJ For Tickets and more information visit. www.theeagletheatre.com or call 609.704.5012.

Photos: Cara Noel Antosca and Sal Pavia ( Ariel and Ren)

Photos: Corey John Hafner (Willard) and company

Photo Credits: Chris Miller