Footloose the Musical at the Princess Theatre Torquay Review
Footloose
Princess Theatre, Torquay
7-11 June 2016
Reviewed by Helen Wyatt
Yesterday evening I was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to review Footloose the musical at the Princess Theatre in Torquay. On arrival at the theatre to collect the tickets, I realised quite how popular the show was due to the throngs of people waiting to go in! It took quite some time to be able to access the stalls through the excited crowds, then once I was in my seat the theatre started to fill up. This show drew an almost packed theatre on the first night, which is telling towards how popular it is.
I do not think I have ever even seen the film, despite having a like for 80s movies, so I was only aware of Kevin Bacon’s appearance in it, and some of the music in the film. Otherwise, I was pretty much in the dark. The programme explains some really useful information on the show’s history, and also regarding the storyline itself; it’s all based around true events.
So to the show itself. It was nothing short of amazing. A fully captivating and bright showpiece of musical talent from beginning to end. The show is clever in that the actors also all play musical instruments; as the premise of the show is that dancing is outlawed, the cast are primarily shown playing instruments instead, and pop up in odd places to strum a guitar, blow a sax, or play a clarinet.
Every cast member had spot on American accents, and everyone put their all into the performances. The singing was fabulous, and I was entranced throughout. There was an especially lovely number where Vi Moore (Maureen Nolan), Ariel Moore (Hannah Price), and Ethel McCormack (Nicky Swift) sing a close harmony trio, which was emotional and beautifully produced.
Maureen Nolan’s portrayal of the Reverend’s wife was wonderful, and she hit the nail on the head with the loving but firm spouse character. Another star of the show alongside Maureen Nolan, was Lee Brennan of 911 fame, playing the country bumpkin Willard. Lee’s energy and enthusiasm for the role were almost unparalleled, and his comic timing was fantastic.
Of particular note were Ren McCormack, played by Luke Baker as the lead character. Luke’s energy through the character of Ren was contagious, and he really truly “couldn’t stand still”!
I cannot praise the high energy of the whole cast enough, and it was pleasing to see their versatility in dance, singing, and musical numbers throughout.
Of course, we were a rather British audience, and the cast weren’t able to get anyone clapping until 90% of the show was through, but after a faltering start the clapping began in earnest, and the standing followed! By the end almost the whole theatre were on their feet and clapping along to the finale.
What a fabulous show to blow your socks off and your cobwebs away. I hugely enjoyed the entertainment value Footloose gave, and would see it again in an instance.
The theatre is situated in a gorgeous sea-front location, with easy access to parking and restaurants. My only criticism of the theatre is the layout, meaning there is a bottle neck to get into the auditorium, and the lack of loos! As ever the gents was empty whilst ladies queued out the door for 20+ minutes, which rather spoilt the interval.
And now I’m off to watch the film. If you go to see this, and you SHOULD, you’ll be tapping your toes before you know it.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £17.90 to £43.40 (plus £4 transaction fee).
Footloose the musical is at the Princess Theatre in Torquay until 11 June 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 3023.
Princess Theatre, Torbay Road, Torquay, TQ2 5EZ | 0844 871 3023
