Since starting this blog I have enjoyed discovering how much more Musical Theatre beyond Crown is happening in Perth. My latest find is the Drew Anthony Creative Theatrical Company. The night before, I’d been to a Gilbert and Sullivan show, now I was off to Footloose – a very different prospect indeed. How good that we have variety like this here; even if not every big touring show makes it to Perth there are plenty of other quality performances to fill that gap. By comparison, the only thing I can find to see in Brisbane this weekend is The Gruffalo!
The Theatre
Footloose played at Planet Royale in Northbridge. It’s a buzzing and easy to get to venue with its own personality: there are arcade games downstairs, cabaret tables for the front row and people could even order food to take into the theatre. Seats were comfy and the view was great. The staff were super friendly and the pre-show and interval music added to the great vibe – I need that playlist. This was a top place.
The Story
Footloose is set in a small town in the USA. As a reaction to a fatal car crash, the local council introduce new restrictions on teenagers and the musical is their story. The original film came out in in 1984 but this production was set in modern times. I don’t know the movie but it seems this musical might have tweaked a few things (there were MacBooks and clever references to Wicked and Donald Trump) to keep it relatable but no major alterations. I could be wrong but either way it worked.
The character of the minister at the local church was the central figure who instigated the harsh new restrictions and I appreciated how the show discussed the issues that arose around his faith, parenting, and inconsistencies whilst still being respectful to religion in general.
This was the third show in recent times (after Back To The Future and Mrs. Doubtfire) that gave some important reminders for parents. Musicals aren’t just about pure entertainment; their art makes us think and reflect.
The Production
How good is it when people just get something right?! DAC are clearly skilled and put in the effort; I couldn’t fault the show. The whole cast was full of talent. The use of projection was very effective in creating the various locations and this was complemented by the creative use of half a dozen blocks that were continuously moved and re-purposed throughout the show. The tech side worked seamlessly. The rock songs, the ballads, the dancing, the acting, the emotion, the energy…. it all hit the spot.
The only thing I’d do differently…
There was actually one mistake though and I made it. As this is more of a theatre fan’s blog than an official media or qualified reviewer site, I don’t always get to opening nights or early shows in a season. It’s when it fits in with life. But the problem with going to the last performance, as I did with Footloose, is that I can’t go again! I can’t take or tell my friends. After this show I know I need to change and go early after all. This was a production as good as you will see and I am pumped to now have another company to follow and look out for their next show, which by the way is Man Up! on 1st and 2nd August. See you there, no doubt for another standing ovation.
