I was so pleased to find LIVE theatre upon my first visit to Atlantic City. FOOTLOOSE was one of my favourite movies growing up and this production has just as much youthful, energetic energy as the original. The show starts abruptly with the title song led by "Ren" (Org. Keven Bacon) who couldn't seem to stay on pitch-a problem which was unfortunately repeated throughout the show. Thank goodness for the ensemble coming in. As the show progresses we find that the actor playing "Ren" is a TRUE triple threat-He cannot sing, He cannot dance, and He cannot act. One of many painful moments was the "I'm Free" scene. I would like to think in my heart of hearts that he was an under rehearsed understudy who was thrown onto that stage last minute. However, with no Playbill-who's to know. I cannot imagine ANYONE casting him as a believable "Bad Boy" that comes into town as he aimlessly shuffles he way through the motions of the script. The only chemistry between he and the lead girl "Ariel" is that of a best friend she'd maybe like to go shopping with.
The Actress that plays "Ariel" is a complete other story. She, as do most of the cast, bring a welcomed sense of professionalism and heart to their roles. One of her many highlights are 'Hero' & 'Almost Paradise' (A song in which her mic seemed to be much hotter than that of "Rens"-coincidence?) With her movie star good looks that seem to light up the stage and power house voice, it is no wonder why she was cast. Definitely catch her before she moves on to bigger things! As the show progresses we are also introduced to her father, 'Rev Shaw' and mother "VI". Both played with such an understanding of the human condition. What a joy to find them both here. 'Ariel's' local "Bad Boy" boyfriend "Chuck" is excellent! He stirs up a lot of trouble and never fails to hit the mark. With his dark attractiveness it's no wonder why "Ariel' chooses to put up with him.
The would be greek chorus comprised of "Ariel's" 3 best friends were a perfect match. The followed and supported her to a "T." They all get their chance to shine throughout the show but none more than "Rusty." During the BBQ scene, she really shows what she's made of. After many failed attempts to capture "Willard's" heart she belts out her devotion in a show stopping 'Let's Hear it for the Boy.' "Willard" was one of my favourite parts of the Broadway production-this is not that case here. He seems to search for laughs through what can only be described as self indulgent dribble. Though quite enjoyable-i wish we were having half as much fun as he was having. [I'm not exactly sure how other reviewers found out his name and were gushing over him. Either they are very young and naive or maybe it's his good 'ol Mama again.] I wish some actors would learn that there is a huge difference between throwing themselves at the audience and allowing the audience to come to them.
The core of many bigger numbers is the ensemble. Comprised here of some very young looking performers who don't mind being out of line when excited. Works better in some scenes than others, but as a whole are wonderfully talented! I'm not quite sure if they were down a few dancers. During the larger group numbers-the massive showroom stage seemed to drown out most of the actors as well as the set. The most impressive being again, 'Almost Paradise' and 'Footloose."
No matter what your primary source of entertainment-Do yourself a favor and get to FOOTLOOSE. Great hits from the 80's performed by a young, energetic cast. Surly not to be missed! Cut loose!
