Regina Summer Stage ready to cut loose

For those not looking to scratch a country music itch in Craven this weekend, Regina Summer Stage promises to have patrons tapping their feet and dancing in their seats Thursday through Sunday with the musical Footloose.

Director Brad McDougall asserts it's the perfect summer musical.

“I think, the appeal for me is the nostalgia as the musical is loosely based on the '80s movie starring Kevin Bacon,” said McDougall. “I've always been a fan of the music, so it holds a lot of nostalgia for me and I think that will also resonate with the audience. It also resonates with a lot of younger people too because of the music and the songs are still on the radio all the time. It was a soundtrack of my youth and I think it's still applicable to today's youth too.”

“I think the story is still relevant and the music of the '80s still appeals to people. It's great dance music because it's upbeat and it's positive.”

Based on the 1983 movie about a big city kid moving to a small conservative community that has outlawed rock music and dancing, the musical features Griffin Hewitt in the lead role as Ren McCormack and Montana Adams as Ariel Moore, the daughter of the town's strict reverend.

Helming the musical direction is Diane Taylor-Neale, while sisters Claire and Hannah Castle have choreographed a new spin on the iconic dance numbers.

“We're on track for a great performance come Thursday,” exclaimed McDougall. “We started rehearsals on May 23rd, so we're definitely on track for opening night.”

The Regina Summer Stage executive contacted McDougall about directing this year's summer musical and after going back and forth trying to determine the right piece, McDougall had to wait to see which of the choices they would be able to secure the rights for.

Fortunately, finding the right performers for Footloose was an easier exercise.

“We lucked out with our cast and found some terrific people to be in it,” said McDougall. “We were waiting for some of the schools to be out from the eastern colleges. We were lucky enough to get Griffin Hewitt from Sheridan College who happened to be coming home for the summer. He's a local kid who's been away for a couple years at theatre school, so it's fantastic to have him involved.

“I think it's great to be able to work with local actors. We've had so many great artists go away to work on Broadway and in films that are from Regina that's it's nice when we get the chance to work with them here.”

With over a month of rehearsals, McDougall believes his cast and crew are up to the task of impressing local theatre fans, fans of the original movie, and those looking for something different to do.

“I really think they'll be pleasantly surprised with the level of talent and they'll be surprised with the music and the level of energy,” explained McDougall. “It's music that's fun for all ages and we really have a tremendous cast that does the musical justice.”