Behind the Scenes of Footloose

Nada Nour, staff writer

For years, Johns Creek High School theatre has built a reputation for putting on engaging and remarkable performances that highlight not only the actor’s skills, but the technical aspects as well. Past shows such as Mean Girls and Arsenic and Lace have stood out for their strong scenes, dedicated actors and detailed sets. Tech crew works diligently behind the curtains to make sure everything runs smoothly all while the talented actors perform engaging acts. One of the school's biggest strengths when it comes to theatre is its large sense of community and dedication. Students stay up late working with their team to create performances that feel real, polished and passionate. This year's production of Footloose is going to be no different. 

Footloose directed by Herbert Ross is a musical drama that revolves around a teenager–Ren McCormack–who moves to a small Midwestern town only to find out they have set a ban against dancing and rock music. McCormack struggles to fit in, but with the help of his new friends he works to loosen up the town's views and dancing and music. 

A huge part of the production happens off stage. The technical crew has spent months designing and building sets, painting back drops and placing props to create an authentic and exciting feel to the footloose set. Every detail of the sets has been carefully thought out to ensure each piece flows with the play all while not taking away from the performers' acts. Members of technical theatre worked closely with Mrs. Prost, the head director, and stage managers to ensure all acts would play out smoothly and that sets could be moved with efficiency. In addition, since Footloose is a very transition frequent show with heavy dance scenes, members had to focus on time efficiency.  

For the performers, preparation meant early mornings practicing lines, late night rehearsals, balancing choreography and vocals all at once. Many students mentioned that one of the most difficult aspects of Footloose is maintaing energy while performing the complicated dance numbers. Compared to the school's previous productions, Footloose requires more physical energy, stamina and cleaner coordination between cast members.  

“Our cast has spent hours on hours practicing choreography, vocals and lines. Footloose is just one of those very technical plays and I can’t wait to show off all our work,” said senior Finn Holmes. 

As the opening night approaches, all these pieces are being put together. Tech crew practices light cues, set changes and live music all into one show. Performers perfect lines, choreography and vocals with not only themselves but alongside with their cast. Stage managers and head director Mrs. Prost run full run-throughs to ensure all the pieces come together beautifully to create an engaging play the audience loves. Although it takes so much effort to create, most students say they have never regreted it and view footloose as one of their favorite productions.   

“I've gone to almost every play JCHS has performed, and every part of the performance is always so well thought out. I can’t wait to see what they’ve done with Footloose this year,” said senior Grace Jiang.