Large Crowds Attend Babylon High School's "Footloose"

Iconic scenes from the famous ’80s movie-turned-Broadway musical unfolded on stage at Babylon Junior-Senior High School when the theater company presented “Footloose” to packed audiences earlier this November.

Between hit songs including “Almost Paradise” and “Footloose,” the cast of nearly 40 members entertained audiences of all ages with their production. 

The show followed teenager Ren McCormack (played by Logan Middleton) as he moves from Chicago to the small town of Beaumont. Ren’s displeasure for this sudden life change quickly intensifies when he learns that his love for rock ’n’ roll and dance will be shortchanged by Reverend Shaw’s (played by Devin Golder) ban on such things.

During the two-act show, the Reverend’s daughter Ariel (played by Julia O’Handley), her mother Vi (played by Brooke Wexler) and other members of the cast educated the audience as to the history of the ban before collectively convincing the Reverend to reverse the sanction. 

In addition to their evening and matinee performances, the students staged a free show for the community’s senior citizens, prior to which attendees feasted on a delicious three-course pasta dinner served by the school’s Leo Club. 

Teacher Lisa Drance directed this year’s production, with musical direction provided by Charles Leech. For the first time in recent history, two students, Amanda Albert and Jayne Dittmeier, choreographed the show. The creative sets were designed by the stage crew with the help of Linda Napolitano, and distinctive lighting and sound, under the direction of Colleen Angerami.