They Dared to Dance!  Get ready to cut loose as, Up In Lights Productions Inc. presents the high-energy summer musical Footloose.  One of the most explosive movie musicals in recent memory now bursts onto the live stage.

When Ren, played by Cole Emarine, and his mother Ethel, (Paula Satchell), move from Chicago to a small farming town with Ren’s Aunt and Uncle (Erika Steving and Casey Goltz), Ren is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. However, Ren is stunned when he learns that dancing is not allowed anywhere within the town limits of Bomont.  His new friends Jeter, Bickle and Garvin (Clint Pepperd, Craig Shimek, Steve Yaden) explain that this law dates back five years to a car accident that claimed the lives of four Bomont teenagers.’  In the flood of grief and guilt that followed that tragedy, Rev. Moore, managed to convince the town council to ban dancing.  The only person seemingly unfazed by Rev. Moore’s iron-fisted control is his daughter Ariel, played by Ashley Fetyko. 

When the Reverend's rebellious daughter sets her eye on Ren, her roughneck boy friend Chuck Cranston, played by Kevin Satchell, tries to sabotage Ren's reputation, with his buddies Lyle and Travis, played by Jerick Flores and Juan Holguin. When Rev. Moore learns of Ariel’s interest in Ren he forbids Ariel from seeing him again, claiming he is a troublemaker.  Arial’s mother Vi, (Tara Szabo), and Ethel, try to make sense of the roles they play as mother’s and wives in the beautiful ballad “Learning to Be Silent.” 

Frustrated by his new stifling environment Ren vow’s to “take on this town” and incites a revolution by his classmates:  “to throw a dance.”  Learning to dance has never been so hilarious as Willard Hewitt, (Josh Kolb) a good ol’ country boy, tries to appease Rusty (Katie Lock), and attempts some basic dance steps during the song “Let’s Hear It For the Boy!”  Joining Rusty as Ariel’s friends are Urleen and Wendy Jo played by Annie Bamesberger and Breanna Kreager .  Together they bring memorable songs from the movie to life as well as new dynamic songs added for the stage.   

“Let’s Make Believe We’re In Love,” captures your heart as Loveland’s Kalli Flanigan takes on the role of Irene, a country singer at the dance hall just outside of Bomont. “Mama Says,” will stop the show as the guys join Willard with laughter and true country masculinity.  The townspeople and high school students are, Claire Doughman, Cindy Garcia, Kate DeSalvo and Joe Vojonsky as Coach Roger Dunbar. 

Footloose, takes place in present day, but doesn’t leave out the memorable 80’s hit songs from the movie and soundtrack.  Songs like “Holdin’ Out For A Hero,” which will bring together the dream like music video’s of today with our everyday modern “Hero’s.”   Ariel and Ren will perform the Rock-Ballad “Almost Paradise,” as they finally stop fighting and give in to their love for each.  Kenny Loggins’ Billboard topping songs, “I’m Free”, as well as the unforgettable title track “Footloose,” open and close the show with energy and excitement that will pull you out of your seat and on your feet.  Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people, guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind.

Britni Rhodes is the Primary Director and Choreographer for the production.  Annie Bamesberger is the Assistant Director and Assistant.  Marke Hernandez and Kalli Flanigan are the music directors for Footloose.  Tyler Rhodes is the Technical Director, Stage Manager and Set Designer with the assistance of Casey Godtz, Claire Pepperd and Cindy Garcia.  Debbie Russell has once again joined the team to design and create the costumes for the show.       

Running July 8, 9, 15, and 16 at 7:30pm and July 10 and 17 at 2:30pm.  Ticket prices for Footloose are $12 for Adults and $10 for Students and Senior Citizens.  This show is rated PG for some subject matter.  Come enjoy the unforgettable music and exuberant dancing, as Footloose rocks the Rialto with more energy and charisma then any other show this summer!