You’d be hard-pressed to find someone who isn’t familiar with the story of Footloose.
Many of us know Ren, a city boy who moves with his mother to the rural town of Bomont, where dancing is prohibited and decides to convince the city and Reverend Shaw Moore to allow him and his friends to hold a high school prom. Others may be familiar with the theme song by Kenny Loggins. And a few more may have even attempted some of Kevin Bacon’s memorable dance numbers. But few understand the story like Pentacle Theatre director Geri Greeno.
“It was one of my absolute favorite movies as a kid,” Geri recalled. “I loved anything with song and dance.”
Geri describes Footloose as a parable about forgiveness and acceptance. A story that’s “very moving and relevant today.”
For the Pentacle rendition, opening on October 11 and running through November 2, Geri is particularly proud of the depth of talent among the young performers. The show will also feature some adult cast members who are new to Pentacle.
Geri is co-choreographing with Natalie Pate Gwin, who recently starred as Princess Fiona in Shrek The Musical. Both directing and choreography have always been a part of Geri’s body of work. She has choreographed a number of other Pentacle shows, including My Fair Lady, Jesus Christ Superstar, and The Boyfriend.
“My greatest joy in theater is watching others be successful,” she said.
Footloose audiences can also look forward to a live band. About half of Pentacle’s shows, depending on their needs, have a live band instead of recorded tracks, said Geri.
“For a show about dancing, it’s not a dance-heavy show,” she added.
It will be worth it, to see Footloose – if not for nostalgic reasons, then certainly to see how the choreographers and cast can incorporate movement to songs in a town where dancing is illegal.
Pentacle Theatre presents Footloose
When: October 11 – November 2
Where: Pentacle Theatre
Cost: Starting at $26. Click here for tickets.