Footloose Recap

GlenOak High School Brings Energy and Talent to the Stage with Footloose

Students at GlenOak High School lit up the Abbey Foltz Stage with a high-energy production of Footloose, bringing the beloved story of music, friendship, and finding your voice to life through three performances on February 27 and 28. The musical featured a large cast of singers, dancers, musicians, and behind-the-scenes technicians who worked together to create an unforgettable experience for the community.

Leading the cast was senior Zachary May as Ren McCormack, the energetic new kid in town determined to bring music and dance back to the small town of Bomont. Opposite him, Katie Dever delivered a standout performance as Ariel Moore, the rebellious daughter of the town’s minister. The cast also featured Drayden Chapman as Reverend Shaw Moore, Kaylah Kershner as Vi Moore, Conner Belden as Willard Hewitt, Lydia Hennessy as Rusty, and Kyra Halkias as Ethel McCormack, along with a talented ensemble of student performers who filled the stage with energy throughout the show.

Behind the scenes, dozens of students contributed their talents to technical production, lighting, sound, stage management, and set construction. Students in GlenOak’s Light and Sound Technologies and Theater Arts programs played a key role in bringing the production to life, handling everything from lighting design and sound operation to stage crew coordination.

The production was directed by Amy Sima-Dirham, who also served as Producing Artistic Director. The creative team included Brian Keiffer as Music Director, Chris Irwin leading the pit orchestra, Jackie Blaydes as Dance Choreographer, Mary Meese as Production Choreographer, and Anthony DePinto as Technical Director. Their leadership helped guide students through months of rehearsals and preparation leading up to opening night.

The show also highlighted the incredible work of GlenOak’s pit orchestra, featuring student musicians on guitar, percussion, piano, woodwinds, and more, providing the live soundtrack that powered iconic songs such as “Footloose,” “Holding Out for a Hero,” and “Let’s Hear It for the Boy.”

For many seniors, Footloose marked the final musical performance of their GlenOak careers. Seniors across the cast, orchestra, dance program, and technical crew reflected on years spent performing in productions such as Newsies, Shrek the Musical, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and numerous dance recitals and stage shows. Their dedication and leadership helped mentor younger performers and ensure another successful season for GlenOak Theater Arts.

The production also demonstrated the strong collaboration that makes GlenOak’s performing arts program thrive. Students from the choir program, dance program, theater classes, and career technical programs worked side by side to create a professional-quality production that entertained audiences and showcased the artistic talent within Plain Local Schools.

With memorable music, vibrant choreography, and a cast and crew committed to excellence, GlenOak’s Footloose proved once again that the performing arts remain a powerful part of the Eagle experience.