News Summary
Vanguard University’s Theatre Arts Department announces the upcoming production of the musical Footloose, showcasing dynamic choreography and a talented cast. Directed by Broadway veteran Nikki Snelson, this production tells the story of a teenager’s struggle against societal norms in the small town of Bomont. With live music and a skilled production team, Footloose promises to engage audiences of all ages at the Lyceum Theater, running from February 20 to March 9.
Costa Mesa, California – Vanguard University’s Theatre Arts Department is set to present the musical Footloose from February 20 to March 9. This highly anticipated production will feature a talented cast, dynamic choreography, and unforgettable music, promising an engaging experience for audiences of all ages.
Footloose, originally written by Dean Pitchford, with a book adapted by Pitchford and Walter Bobbie, and music by Tom Snow, tells the story of a teenager’s struggle against authority and societal norms. The narrative centers on Ren McCormack, who moves from Chicago to the small town of Bomont after facing a challenging family situation, including his father’s abandonment. As Ren settles into his new environment, he confronts opposition from the local community, particularly its Reverend, while advocating for the right of teenagers to dance.
The production will be directed and choreographed by Nikki Snelson, a seasoned Broadway performer with over 20 years of experience. Snelson is known for her roles in productions such as Legally Blonde and Annie Get Your Gun. She has expressed her enthusiasm for bringing Footloose to the Lyceum Theater and is excited about the young talent involved in the cast, emphasizing the importance of themes like joy, loss, and the power of dance in overcoming difficulties.
The cast includes notable performers such as Leilua Kruse, Leilani Munck, Alex Norman, and others, who will embody the vibrant characters within the storyline. Accompanying the performances will be a live band composed of talented musicians including Scott Cokely on piano, Natalie Suvarnasuddhi on reeds, and Eby Viveros on bass, enhancing the musical experience for attendees.
The production team consists of skilled designers and crew members dedicated to creating a memorable performance. Jim Huffman serves as the scenic designer, while Lia Hansen handles the costumes. Lighting design, which plays a crucial role in the visual aesthetics of the show, is led by Garrett Spady, with Nathan Gall assisting in that aspect. Additionally, the technical crew includes a stage manager, technical director, and audio supervisor, all working collaboratively to deliver a polished production.
The entire experience is crafted to appeal to teenagers and older audiences, making it a suitable choice for families and friends looking to enjoy live theater. With a blend of laughter and poignant moments, Footloose aims to resonate with viewers while celebrating the transformative power of music and dance.
Vanguard University invites the community to attend this vibrant production, taking place at the Lyceum Theater. The show runs for nearly three weeks, culminating on March 9, offering multiple opportunities for audience members to enjoy the heartfelt storytelling and energetic performances of Footloose.
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Additional Resources
- Playbill: Institutional Off-Broadway Group Auditions 2025
- Broadway World: PATIENT 13 Comes To The Tank
- New York Times: A24 at Cherry Lane Theater
- Vulture: What’s on Broadway
- On Stage Blog: Could Broadway Ever Leave NYC?
- Wikipedia: Theater
- Google Search: Broadway 2025
- Google Scholar: Musical Theater
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Theatre
- Google News: Broadway News
