Performers are footloose and fancy free at Theatre Severn

HQPA from Shrewsbury College have put on a musical production of the 80s classic Footloose at Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury.

And energy was high on opening night, with the whole cast appearing to have a huge amount of fun in the production.

At the show in the Walker Theatre on Tuesday, the dance routines were full of enthusiasm and well rehearsed and the main characters all had excellent voices.

As to be expected on opening night, there were a few lighting and sound hitches, but it was handled well by the young cast, who put on sterling performances.

On opening night, stand-out performers were Thea Hughes as Rusty and Urleen played by Michaela Carrow who had very strong voices.

Thea's performance of Let's Hear it for the Boy was a real highlight.

A walk on performance by a young woman who was the manager of the restaurant where Ren McCormack, played very strongly by Ryan Maddocks, also had the audience in stitches as she worked around a technical problem with her roller skates. And covered it up brilliantly.

Luke Cottrell as side-kick Willard was also a big hit with the crowd as was love-interest Ariel, played by Charlotte Flood, who played the rebellious teen well.

Stage setting was also good, giving the show a very professional feel.

Teacher, Michael Jenkins, said: "I am thrilled with how the opening night of Footloose went, the students rose to the challenge and provided some fantastic bold performances.

"Footloose isn't just a fun upbeat show, it has some serious issues to deal with including broken marriages and death. Myself and the rest of the creative team are hugely proud of how our students tackle these themes.

"Overall the show was a huge success and I look forward the rest of run."