Footloose At Royal And Derngate Theatre Northampton Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Ilze
It was an absolute pleasure to be invited back to The Royal and Derngate Theatre in Northampton, this time for a spirited and heartfelt production of Footloose by the talented Northampton Musical Theatre Company (NMTC). Watching a local group like NMTC bring this iconic story to life was a refreshing experience. Footloose is all about freedom, joy, dance, and music, and NMTC channelled that energy with passion and authenticity.
One of the highlights was being seated close to the band, adding an extra layer to the experience. The music came alive in a powerful way, filling the room and pulling us into the heart of the story. The band was outstanding, and their performance gave the show a vibrant pulse, connecting with the audience and enriching each scene.
The set design was equally impressive—more than just a backdrop, it was an essential part of the storytelling. NMTC managed seamless scene transitions with clever set pieces, adding flow and keeping the momentum of the show alive. This level of attention to detail showed not only the skill but the dedication of everyone involved, creating an atmosphere that enhanced the entire experience.

The casting for this production was thoughtful and well-executed. Every performer brought something special to the stage, contributing to the show’s overall energy and enjoyment. Ell Barnes-Ward, playing the role of young Ren McCormack, delivered an impressive performance, both vocally and in his stage presence. His voice was strong, expressive, and full of energy, setting the tone for the production and adding a spark that carried throughout. Ren’s character is a challenging one, with plenty of emotional ups and downs, but Ell handled it well, showing maturity and range beyond his years.
Two performances really stood out and deserve special recognition. First, Hannah Taylor as Vi Moore, the Reverend’s wife, brought an elegant depth to her role. She was a picture of grace and nuance, embodying Vi as both a supportive partner and a grieving mother. Hannah’s portrayal captured the complexity of a character who is the silent strength behind her family while still dealing with her own private sorrow. In her quiet moments, you could feel the weight of her emotions, and her subtle, controlled expressions spoke volumes. Hannah had the audience captivated; her presence brought a certain stillness to the theatre, and there were times when you could hear a pin drop. She brought out Vi’s wisdom and warmth, making her performance not only authentic but memorable. Hannah’s portrayal reminded us all of the power of a mother’s love and resilience, and she gave the character a dignity that resonated long after the curtain closed.
Then, there was Luke White, who stepped into the role of Willard Hewitt with charm and charisma that stole the show. Willard is described as a “simple country bumpkin with a warm heart and a big smile,” and Luke nailed this to perfection, bringing Willard’s humour, warmth, and innocence to life. What made Luke’s portrayal so special was his ability to balance the comedic elements of Willard with genuine heart. He didn’t just play Willard as a caricature; he made him feel real, lovable, and sincere. Luke’s timing and physicality were spot-on, earning laughs and smiles from the audience throughout the show. But beyond the laughs, he gave Willard a depth that was truly endearing. Watching him, you could tell Luke is one of those rare talents who naturally understands how to connect with an audience, making them feel the character’s warmth and quirks as if they’d known him forever. I have no doubt we’ll be seeing more of Luke in the future—he’s simply destined to entertain.
Supporting local theatre groups like NMTC is such a rewarding experience. Sure, they might not have the budget or polish of big-city productions, but what they bring to the stage is something special. There’s a heartfelt passion in every performance, and it’s clear that these actors, directors, and crew members truly love what they do. Watching local theatre feels like being part of something real and personal, and it’s a celebration of the incredible talent and creativity that exists right in our community.
Local theatre is also a fantastic space for emerging talent to develop, offering performers the chance to build confidence, gain experience, and showcase their potential. Smaller companies are often super inventive with their resources, putting clever twists on classics or designing sets and costumes that surprise the audience. Going to a local show isn’t just entertainment; it’s an investment in the future of the arts and a way to support and celebrate what makes our community unique.
Finally, a big thank you to the team at The Royal and Derngate Theatre, who made the entire experience smooth and enjoyable from start to finish. The staff was friendly and welcoming as always, and with a nearby car park and a hotel just a minute’s walk away, the venue couldn’t be more convenient.
All in all, NMTC’s production of Footloose was a testament to the power of community and the magic of local theatre. The cast and crew poured their hearts into this show, and it truly paid off. It’s productions like these that remind us how special local theatre can be, creating memories that feel a bit more personal and leaving the audience with a feeling of joy and connection. I can’t wait to see what NMTC brings to the stage next!
Tickets are available at https://www.royalandderngate.co.uk and starts at £28.
A solid 4/5 for this production!
Rating: 4/5
Photo Credit – Oscar Myles of My10productions