In less than two weeks, Catholic’s spring musical, Footloose, will be dancing into the Guadalupe Center. Compared to last year’s musical, Hairspray, which sold out in a short two weeks, tickets to this show sold out in only a week. Clearly, the entire CC community is anxiously awaiting the opening of Footloose, and with good reason.
For those that have never seen the movie, or the musical, it is “a great story about empowerment of youth. It takes place in a fictional southern setting where dancing is prohibited. It spurs lots of laws that infringe upon kids’ rights,” said Drama teacher and director of the musical Katie Wilson. “I like the aspect of standing up for what you believe in without going against God or being disrespectful.”
Every member of the cast has been working hard to execute a great show. “We practice every day,” said senior Jay Mullins, who plays Chuck Cranston. “I love the energy and good feelings I get from performing.”
Senior Matt Thompson, who plays the leading role of Ren McCormick, feels the same way. “I don’t sleep. I practice all night and sleep in class. I’ve been working every night and dancing everyday.” Senior Karly Loberg, who plays Principal Clark, said she “practices everyday after school. I practice my lines and work with Ms. Wilson, who has played this role before.”
Not only have they put in hard work, but also, the cast members have had a blast on their journey to put on the perfect show. Sophomore Mary Grace Sumner, also known as Rusty in Footloose, loves being able to spend time with the other members of the cast. “I love Tech Week because we’re there for a long period of time with non-stop work and being with the cast. I love when we get to do big group numbers.” Cast members Morgan Balke and Brianna DeMelo said they both enjoy “having that thrilling moment on stage with all your friends.”
Through all the long days and nights of rehearsals, both after school and on the weekends, Ms. Wilson can’t wait for everyone to experience what she has for the past few months. “I have watched this cast grow and the first day with the audience makes everything surreal and come together.”
Senior and Student Technical Director Patrick Scotzka wants everyone to see the amazing sets. “The set is much more conceptual and the audience gets to see their imagination on some of the scenes.”
Though online ticket sales sold out, “More available seats will become available when risers get here, but there will still be a limited number.”
If you were not one of the lucky ones to get a ticket before they sold out, be sure to come to any one of the performances 90 minutes in advance to try and get overflow seating.
Also, on Thursday, March 22nd, there will be a special dress rehearsal for Cathedral students only.
Ms. Wilson said, “It goes without saying, it’s amazing.”