Stage Gets Footloose

By Alaina Murphy

During these last few weeks of the quarter, most students are confined to the library or glued to their textbooks. However, amidst the stress and monotony of finals, students can find a perfect opportunity to take a break from their studies and let loose: SCU Presents' rendition of the 1984 classic, "Footloose."

The musical tells the tale of a city boy named Ren McCormick, played by sophomore Kyle Van Zanten, who moves to a small town where dancing is strictly prohibited, a rule enforced by Reverend Shaw Moore, sophomore Gavin Mueller. McCormick and the pastor's daughter, Ariel Moore, played by sophomore Sonya Venugopal, join forces and embark on a journey to abolish the town's restrictive laws against dancing.

Next Friday marks the opening night for the high-energy show, which is filled with catchy tunes and entertaining dance numbers. Director Kimberly Mohne Hill, choreographer Pauline Loscin-Kanter and the Santa Clara cast and crew members have been rehearsing every day since the first week of the quarter. The cast and crew is made up of students in a variety of grade levels, including eight graduating seniors.

Matt Lee, a senior majoring in both finance and theater, describes the show as a story of "joy, life and letting loose." Lee, who has participated in nine productions since his first audition on the first day of freshman year, is part of the male trio in the ensemble.

When asked about the type of music in the show, he described the song "Mama Says" as "barbershop quartet meets hillbilly farmers." For some songs, the entire cast performs together, making for a powerful show. In addition to the graduating seniors, the show features 10 freshmen performers as well.

Performed at Mayer Theatre, there will be seven shows in all: six during the evening and one matinée on Sunday. "Footloose" is sure to be a hit, so be sure to get a ticket and cheer on your fellow classmates as they light up the stage.

Contact Alaina Murphy at acmurphy@scu.edu.