Sleepy Hollow High School’s annual musical production is again underway, as local students spend countless hours after school focusing on the show-in-the-making. This year, the show is none other than Footloose, the story of a teen who, because of a recent family issue, moves to a middle-of-nowhere town called Beaumont. In this community, it just so happens that dancing is not only heavily looked down upon, but illegal.
This production is giving Sleepy Hollow’s theatre program a fresh twist, as it draws on a new and innovative style of dance choreography. The choreographers of this show are Sleepy Hollow seniors Polina Ionina, and Katy Wood. Sleepy Hollow has also brought in a choreographic adviser by the name of Cynthia Anderson-Cook, for assistance and point of view.
Directed by Sleepy Hollow’s Art and Music Chairperson Gail Persad, Footloose draws on a lot more than talent. It touches upon important issues such as freedom and individuality of youth.
Footloose has a style that is very much its own, and, as Persad noted, is “unlike anything that Sleepy Hollow has ever put on before.” It is not your typical classic musical. It brings more to the table of choreography than the standard jazz hands and kick line. It draws much more heavily on the dance aspect of a musical, as compared with other productions in years past. It is of its own caliber, and through modern movement and an energetic score, Footloose leaves little to be desired.
The performances of Footloose take place on Friday, April 9 at 7:30 pm and Saturday, April 10 at 2:00 pm and 7:30 pm in the Sleepy Hollow High School Auditorium. Tickets are $5 for students and $8 for adults, purchased at the door.
