playbill vip

Welcome, everyone, to Footloose the Musical at Players Guild at Sugar Hill!

Oftentimes, these notes at the top of your playbill are a space for directors to reflect on how they approach a show, their connection to the material, and why the story feels so important to tell at this moment in time. To give you all some history, this is my seventh production of Footloose that I have been involved with. Footloose was my very first paid and professional gig that I performed in. I simultaneously played Wendy Jo and choreographed the show at Theatre Buford in 2019. Since then, I have choreographed the production for many high schools in the surrounding area. 

So, you might be wondering – aren’t you tired of it?

The answer is a resounding... no! When the opportunity to both direct and choreograph the show again came around, I leapt at the chance. There’s something truly magical about this story, something that transcends generations. It unites people from all walks of life, both onstage and in the audience. The iconic 80s title hits right away, and it’s impossible not to feel it– the beat that makes you want to move, the infectious energy that spreads across the room and brings smiles to faces everywhere.

But beyond the music, Footloose is a story about the transformative power of freedom– freedom of expression, freedom to be who you are. At its heart, the show tells the story of characters who are caught between control and release. There’s this raw, beautiful tension as they struggle with what they’ve been taught versus what, deep down, they know they need in order to heal. It’s a story of personal and collective growth, one where dancing– yes, dancing– becomes the vehicle for change, for breaking down walls, and for shifting hearts.

When it comes to the choreography, I set out to create something entirely fresh. I challenged myself to leave behind the versions I’ve done before and to let this new production speak for itself. What you’ll see onstage today is an entirely new version of the choreography, assisted by the talented Jamilyn Upchurch– influenced by the music, the lyrics, and the 80s vibe, but shaped by the unique energy of this cast.

Finally, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible talent on this stage and the amazing team behind this show. From the moment I cast this production, I knew the level of artistry in this room would be absolutely extraordinary. I am beyond grateful for the cast's dedication, hard work, and their unwavering commitment to bringing this show to life. The energy they’ve poured into Footloose is something you’ll feel from the moment the curtain rises. But none of this would be possible without my incredible artistic team, whose support and expertise have been the backbone of this production. They’ve helped make this the best theatre experience possible, and for that, I am deeply thankful.

As you watch the show, I encourage you to think about the metaphor that runs through the story. If there’s a “dancing outlaw” in your life– something or someone that’s keeping you from loving your neighbor, your daughter, your friend– maybe it’s time to lay down that burden. Lay down the fear. And dance again.

Enjoy the show!

Kari Twyman
Director & Choreographer