Are you ready Indianapolis? The first musical of Indy’s beloved Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s 50th Anniversary season is  the dynamic, dramatic and explosive Footloose, now on stage. This show is a marvelous musical entertainment treat.

Ren and his friends dance in the opening number of Footloose

The production opens with a vibrant dance number that sets the stage for premium quality choreography and music throughout. A Beef and Boards press release provides a snapshot of the storyline: “The 1984 movie danced its way into the hearts of millions, and was nominated for two Oscars, a Golden Globe and a Grammy for its powerhouse hits including “Footloose,” “Almost Paradise,” and “Let’s Hear It for The Boy.” The stage musical combines the bestselling score with dynamic new songs in a celebration of the exhilaration of youth, the wisdom of listening to one another, and the power of forgiveness.”

Ethel McCormack, Ren’s mother, played by B&B veteran Sarah Hund

Rev. Shaw Moore, played by Eddie Curry, B&B long time actor and director

Rusty (Shelbi Berry Kamohara) sings “Let’s Hear It For the Boy”

Ren, a rebellious teenager from Chicago, who, with his mother, moved from the Windy City to Bomont, a super conservative small rural town. He is shocked when he learns that dancing is illegal, among other culture shocks. The plot follows the drama as he comes to grips as best as he can with his developing feelings for Ariel, the minister’s daughter. Oh yes, the minister, Rev. Shaw Moore, is responsible for maintaining the ban on dancing, founded by a tragic accident that took the lives of four teens, including the minister’s son.

Ariel (Sharaé Moultrie), top, sings “I Need A Hero” with her friends (from left) Urleen (Logan Hill), Rusty (Shelby Berry Kamohara), and Wendy Jo (Maya Mays)

As he tries to take her order, Ariel (Sharaé Moultrie), right, tells Ren (Daniel Dipinto) that what she wants isn’t on the menu.

If you like song and dance, Footloose is for you. There are over a dozen songs performed across the two Acts of this stage play. Not only will you enjoy the songs, but you’ll also be amazed at the high stepping and energetic choreography of the dances. Over the course of the scenes the story of Ren and his quest to fit in are dotted with happiness and sadness. But the overall show is both uplifting and inspiring. Yes it has a happy ending.

At the Dance

Willard leaps at the dance

Honky Tonk Angels, Hello, Dolly!) is Rusty, while Noah Nehemiah Robinson makes his Beef & Boards debut as Willard. Eddie Curry reprises his role as the uptight town minister, Rev. Shaw Moore. The show is directed by Heather Patterson King, with choreography by Doug King and musical direction by Kristy Templet. Footloose is rated PG-13 for some adult themes and language.

Ren leaps for joy at the dance