BWW Reviews: FOOTLOOSE at the Muny

I remember seeing Footloose in a theatre back in 1984, and I think I actually enjoyed it. I even have a cassette of the soundtrack somewhere, although I don't remember ever purchasing it. Still, it's the type of movie that can be easily tweaked for translation to the stage since the songs are already in place (for the most part), and the plot blends dance with romance. It is an undeniably infectious combination, especially for those of us who grew up with this music, for better or worse. The Muny's current production of Footloose is generally solid, but really comes to life during the lively dance numbers that are sprinkled throughout.

The plot follows the basics of the movie, with single mother Ethel McCormack moving herself and her son, Ren, into a relative's home in the small town of Bomont. Ren, who'd grown accustomed to the dance club nightlife in Chicago, soon runs afoul of the locals with his attitude, and because of his need to dance, something that's banned in this burg. However, he catches the eye of the minister's free-spirited daughter Ariel, and soon they're co-conspirators in an effort to put on a dance of their own, even though that puts Ariel and her father at loggerheads.

Curtis Holbrook and Meggie Cansler make an appealing couple as Ren and Ariel, respectively, and both acquit themselves well vocally on their big duet, "Almost Paradise". But, they're both upstaged by the antics of Kevin Massey as slow-witted, but devoted cowboy Willard, and his attempts to bust some moves on the dance floor. Cathryn Basile is also good as Rusty, cheering Willard on to the tune of "Let's Hear It For the Boy". Jeff McCarthy has the proper pious attitude as the Rev. Moore, while Dee Hoty is decidedly more reasonably minded as his wife, Vi. Jennifer Prescott also contributes fine work as Ren's mother, Ethel.

Director Paul Blake keeps the pace moving along nicely, and he's greatly aided in his efforts by Michelle Lynch's wonderful retro choreography, which takes full advantage of the Muny's ample stage. Steve Gilliam's scenic design effectively conveys the various locations, and works well with F. Mitchell Dana's lighting scheme.

Footloose continues through August 8, 2010 at the Muny in Forest Park.

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