Footloose At Theatre Royal, Plymouth Review

Reviewed by Linda Curtain

Theatre-goers in Plymouth are being encouraged to ‘kick off their Sunday shoes’ this week with the long awaited arrival of the musical ‘Footloose’. With the original opening scheduled for 2020, this production was one of the casualties of COVID which resulted in the rescheduling of the tour, but wow! – it was certainly worth the wait!
Following a three week opening run in Zurich, this lively show has arrived at Theatre Royal Plymouth this week and it is great to see the theatre back in full action again. Situated on Royal parade in Plymouth, the theatre is easy to access with ample local parking and served well by many bus routes. The huge Messenger statue stands proudly at the entrance and you are always sure of a warm, helpful welcome from the front of house staff.

Footloose was originally a 1980’s film starring Kevin Bacon and it was first staged in 1998. It basically tells the story of city boy Ren McCormack ( played by Joshua Hawkins) who has moved from vibrant Chicago to a rural backwater town named Bomont. As if settling into a new town as a teenage lad isn’t hard enough, he discovers that the community is ruled by religion with Rev. Shaw Moore ( played by Darren Day) having control over everyone. Following an accident five years ago where four teens were killed, all dancing is banned in the community. Ren sets out to reinstate the 80’s music and dancing which has always been part of his life.

With many well known songs within the score – Holding out for a hero and Let’s hear it for the boys especially- and several lesser known ballads, this show is a treat for 80’s fans.

And what a talented bunch of actors! Not only are they excellent singers and dancers but they effortlessly play their own instruments while moving around the scenes.

Despite the serious underlying storyline, there are many comedy elements which were executed well – Willard Hewitt’s quick change from dungarees to skimpy gold shorts was met with raucous appreciation from last night’s audience!,  With numerous strong characters, they all played their parts well. Ren was instantly likeable – a determined young lad who wants to do his best for the young community. Willard Hewitt ( played by Jake Quickenden) was a great character with a good sense of humour and incredible voice. Likewise his female love interest Rusty ( played by Oonagh Cox) has the most amazing, strong singing voice. Ariel Moore ( played by Lucy Munden) was great as the Reverend’s daughter showing well how she was torn between her fathers demands and her teenage instincts – a situation faced by many youngsters. Finally Darren Day was excellent in his role as Rev.Shaw Moore. A great actor with brilliant, clear diction and vocals.

The musical content was good with well sung solos and duets but I felt that when singing as a company, the singers were rather shouting over the very loud musical background.

With a high energy finale the cast certainly did ‘ cut loose’ to end a fantastic evening of 80’s music and dance.

Rating: A 4/5 rating

Limited tickets now available from www.theatreroyal.com from £18.00

Footloose runs from 14th – 19th February at Theatre Royal Plymouth.