Welcome to Notre Dame Prep’s production of FOOTLOOSE. This year we celebrate our 20th musical theatre production. When we first started to think about what show to perform, we knew it had to be big. Footloose seemed like the perfect fit.
The play follows very close to the story of the movie. Although, Footloose is most famous for show-stopping dance numbers - there are important lessons to be learned. This is not a story of rebellion or religion or about right and wrong. Pure and simple this is a story about love and loss. Ren moves to Bomont because his father has abandoned, he and his mother. Reverend Shaw has led his community to ban dancing and rock n’ roll because of a tragic car accident involving his son. These are human reactions-he is willing to do whatever it takes to make sure no one else feels his pain. In the chaos of trying to control both his family and the community we see that he never had a moment to grieve his loss and therefore never really let go. It is not until the end of the show that Ren points out that they have both gone through a loss that Reverend Shaw sees the light and is ultimately redeemed to his family and community. This play is a message about parenting, community, love, & relationships with songs that will have you dancing in the aisles by the finale.
A show like this is not possible without the tireless efforts of many people behind the scenes. My sincerest thanks to: the producer, Meredith Scott, for her countless hours of work; our assistant producers, Jenn Beaudoin and Jama Lintol, Joe Martin and the pit orchestra for making bringing these classic 80s songs to life; Ally Kaufmann and Donna Pieper for their wonderful choreography and vision; Mrs. Ellie Carter for directing the choral music; Jurgita Bendtsen, our costumer, for 4 years of incredible costumes; Jasmine Radetski and the members of the set crew for building a bridge in 10 hours or less; Mikaela Crute - who is truly "my right arm" when it comes to the fall musical. Finally, to all the parents for your volunteer hours and dedication to this ever-growing program.
It has been my great pleasure working with so many talented students. Thank you for your patronage and I hope you enjoy the show.
Now everybody cut footloose!!!!
David Fazzini
Director
