We are excited to let you know that this year Avonside is collaborating with Shirley Boys High School on the musical ‘Footloose’.

This musical is based on the 1980’s film that became a worldwide sensation. Footloose sizzles with the youthful rebellion and the romance that every generation faces. When Ren, a city kid, arrives from Chicago and begins breaking all the rules in small town Bomont, sparks fly. The score features numbers from the classic soundtrack such as ‘Let’s hear it for the Boy’ and the toe tapping ‘Footloose’.

The auditions for the show were held in February, a cast of girls and boys were named and rehearsals got underway at the start of March. It has been a really exciting but full on five weeks of rehearsal so far, but the energy and enthusiasm from everybody has really paid off. We have finished blocking Act 1 and we are well into Act 2, learning lines, practicing songs and pulling together movement and dance.

The cast of 70 has some real talent and we know from what we have seen already that the show is going to be awesome.

The production team of teachers from both Avonside and Shirley is underway creating costumes, making set, finding props and organising all of the other important behind the scenes aspects of this kind of musical. They will be calling for students to help in a range of production teams so students need to watch the notices for information and meetings. We would really love the support and involvement of our wider school whānau, so if you are keen to get involved please get in touch with Victoria Shaw at Avonside via email. We appreciate all offers of support and involvement.

The show is being performed in Week 4 Term 2, that is May 26th, 27th and 28th. Tickets will be on sale from week 1 of next term, so watch the school website for information about where and how to purchase them. There will also be an advertising campaign that will start at the beginning of term 2. We know tickets will go fast as two schools are involved, so make sure you get organised and buy tickets early.

One of the really exciting things about this show is that it will be the first big musical happening in our new school campus. The large theatre space will get the chance to be used fully, with a big stage, lots of lights, awesome sound, and of course a big cast of students. We cant wait to perform in the space and bring it to life and we know the space will make the audience experience even better, so make sure you are part of that audience!!

Attached is a link to a short montage of rehearsal clips from week 2 and 3. These song and dance numbers are still a work in progress, but they will give you an idea of what to expect if you come along and support the ‘Footloose’ performance.

We really hope to see you there for ‘Footloose’ in week 4 of next term.