By James Penstone, Secondary Principal
26 January 2023
Footloose: A Fusion of Talent, Community and Student Leadership.
This week’s Secondary School production of Footloose: The Musical at ICS delighted audiences over three consecutive nights, showcasing inclusivity and community spirit. Uniting students from Grade 6 to Grade 12, the musical stood as a testament to the diverse talents within our school.
Underpinning the production was a strong student leadership presence, from stage lighting to choreography. This year’s production also allowed a dynamic range of students to take centre stage, from the leads to those in ensemble roles, creating a powerful sense of community and belonging. The costume and set design facilitated swift transitions and captured the essence of the musical’s diverse settings.
The show brimmed with energy and fun, with songs like "Let's Hear It For The Boy" and "Holding Out For A Hero" delivered with tremendous passion. Audience members described the production as both "joyful" and "heartwarming," emphasising its role in bringing the ICS community together. Indeed, a whole host of volunteer staff and parents collaborated with the cast and student production team over the preceding five months to bring this extravaganza to fruition.
The performance had it all - from dancing and humour to romance and politics. A particularly poignant moment occurs when Ren McCormack, portrayed by Youp C., privately challenges Reverend Shaw Moore, played by Axel S. He implores the Reverend to reconsider the ban on dancing, a cherished activity for the town’s youth. This powerful dialogue underscored the importance of intergenerational understanding and reconciliation, as well as recognising the value of younger community members in decision-making processes.
"Indeed, "Footloose" as a show certainly embodied our commitment to empowering students, embracing their voices, and enabling them to pursue their passions.
We are profoundly grateful to everyone involved - students, staff and parents alike - with a special mention to the directorial and technical team - Mr Chris Tierney, Ms Laura Challoner, Mrs Beth Hampton, Ms Sonja Stauble and Mr Christopher Fletcher.