Theatre Review by Don Fowler

I first saw “Footloose” back in 1984 when it was a movie starring Kevin Bacon as Ren, the Chicago teenager who moves to a small town where dancing is banned.

The movie was resurrected in 2001 and, in 2002, Theatre By the Sea brought the stage version to Rhode Island.

Here we are 20 years later, back in Matunuck, watching yet another version of the popular teen musical.

Director Bob Richard leads his cast of two dozen energetic actors, divided equally between the frustrated high schoolers and their equally frustrated parents and teachers.

Ren (JP Qualters) moves to backwater Bomont from Chicago with his mother after being abandoned by his father.

He is immediately pegged as a troublemaker by the ultra-conservative minister (Matthew J. Taylor) and the rest of the town folks.

Much to his chagrin, he discovers that dancing is outlawed in Bomont because of a tragedy occurring years earlier.

“Footloose” is filled with good dancing, a few hit songs from the 80s and some comic relief, while still dealing with serious issues of abuse, divorce, death and lack of communication between parents and children.

Remember “Almost Paradise”? Qualters and Wilcox sing a fine duet of the popular song.

“Let’s Hear It For the Boys” and “Footloose” combine some good singing and dancing.

At times it gets a bit maudlin, but a song and dance are just around the corner, and the main theme of “Movin’ On,” wins out.

While a bit dated, the same issues that teens dealt with are still there, especially following the pandemic. It takes a young person to show the stubborn older folks what life is all about.

There are some standout performances by Emma Wilcox as Ariel, the minister’s rebellious daughter, and Candace Haynes as Rusty.

With a large number of scene changes, the cast is used effectively in keeping the show moving at a fast pace.

Many scene changes also require many costume changes. Hats off to Mikayla Reid for some attractive costuming.

“Footloose” is at Theatre By the Sea through July 16. Call 782-8587 for reservations.