July 28, 29, August 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19
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Footloose, The Musical, brought back long time actor at the Kitsap Forest Theater, Ken Michels, in a new 'role' as director. Ken had previously played the villain, Bill Sykes, in Oliver! (2004) and as the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz (2003), as well as many other shows going back several decades. In the past he used his expertise as a stage fighter and as an expert in physical comedy to help out in numerous other plays. He even choreographic several shows in the 1980s.
Ken was assisted by Guy Cairdi (Choregrapher), Jeff Thirolaway (Music Director), and Olivia Hickerson (Keyboardist). Well know costumer Barbara Klingberg not only put together all the costums but also portrayed the roller skating Betty Blast.
The show is based on the 1984 hit movie,adapted to the stage by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie. The music was composed by Tom Snow, with the help of Eric Carmen, Sammy Hagar, Kenny Loggins and Jim Steinman. Lyrics were by Dean Pitchford.
When Ren (Mike Bowers) and his mother (Gail Foster) move from Chicago to a small farming town, Ren is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. What he isn't prepared for are the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher (Walt Foster), determined to exercise the control over the town's youth that he cannot command in his own home. When the reverend's rebellious daughter (Miranda Boulden) sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren's reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid.
The heartfelt story that emerges is of a father longing for the son he lost and of a young man aching for the father who walked out on him. To the rockin' rhythm of its Oscar and Tony-nominated top 40 score and augmented with dynamic new songs for the stage musical, Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people, guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind.
The show's cast was highly motivated, spending hours after dinner on Saturday night's practicing the dances and lines in the yurt.
