'Footloose' Frolics at The Gem - Review
'Footloose' brings the 1980s classic to the 2020s stage presented by One More Productions at The GEM Theater in Garden Grove, CA.
‘Footloose‘ has long stood as a timeless celebration of rebellion, freedom and the transformative power of music. First arriving on the big screen in 1984, the beloved film starred Kevin Bacon as Ren McCormack, a teenager who finds himself at odds with a conservative small town where dancing has been outlawed following a devastating tragedy. The film’s electrifying story of youthful defiance and personal expression struck a chord with audiences around the world, cementing its place in pop culture history. More than a decade later, in 1998, the story made the leap to the stage, evolving into a musical that has since become a staple of energetic, crowd-pleasing theater.
Now, thanks to One More Productions, this iconic musical bursts to life at The GEM Theater with a stellar cast that honors the spirit of the original film while bringing fresh personalities to every role. Featuring music by Tom Snow, lyrics by Dean Pitchford and a stage adaptation developed by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie, ‘Footloose‘ remains an enduring anthem of self-expression and personal freedom. Better still, the production embraces many of the beloved songs that made the film such a phenomenon, which had me singing along the entire night.
Under the direction and choreography of Broadway veteran Nikki Snelson and with the guidance of Artistic Director Damien Lorton, who is remarkably just four weeks removed from open-heart surgery, this production offers far more than a nostalgic tribute. It delivers an energetic, emotionally resonant and thoroughly authentic interpretation that connects with audiences across generations.
Last year, I reviewed Vanguard University’s production of ‘Footloose‘, and it was exciting to see several performers from that cast return under Snelson’s direction once again. This new staging benefits from a larger ensemble, a full live band and a seamless blend of returning performers and fresh faces, creating an experience that left audiences visibly exhilarated from beginning to end...especially the charming, yet snookered gentleman seated behind me.
Jackson De Lange steps into the role of Ren McCormack, the character made famous by Bacon more than four decades ago. De Lange brings an effortless charisma to the role, balancing Ren’s determination, frustration and vulnerability with a Gen Z appeal. His performance is contemporary without abandoning the qualities that made the character so memorable in the first place.
Opposite him, Leilani Munck reappraises the role of Ariel Moore, originally portrayed by Lori Singer in the film. Munck delivers a spirited and engaging performance, capturing Ariel’s rebellious nature while also revealing the emotional complexity beneath her defiant exterior, while masking the pain in having lost her brother.
Jason Guffey delivers one of the evening’s most affecting performances as Reverend Shaw Moore, the role immortalized by John Lithgow. Rather than portraying the reverend as a rigid moral authority consumed by self-righteousness, Guffey presents a grieving father whose strictness stems from unresolved pain and fear, not realizing the tighter he holds on, the more things slip away, including his daughter. His interpretation highlights a man struggling to protect his community while wrestling with personal loss, typical with unresolved grief within Protestant communities.
Sharing many of the production’s most emotionally powerful moments is Nicole Barnhart as Vi Moore. Her chemistry with Guffey is undeniable and together they paint a heartbreaking portrait of a couple still bound by love yet divided by loss. Their scenes are the emotional weight, grounding the larger story in something deeply personal.
Luke Gilstrap is this productions showstopper as Willard Hewitt, the lovable country boy originally portrayed by Chris Penn. Bringing of a dozen puppies let loose on stage. Gilstrap delivers what is the show’s biggest crowd-pleasing performance. His physicality and enthusiasm consistently draw laughs, making Willard the evening’s standout characters.
Kendra Barnhart returns as Rusty, a role first introduced by Sarah Jessica Parker. Although she does not share much stage time with her real life mother Nicole, two share the same level of talent in that family. This time around, Barnhart leans further into the character’s overly flirtatious and boy-crazy personality, creating a bolder interpretation. The performance adds a playful spark to every scene she inhabits and proves impossible to ignore.
Among the ensemble, Elijah Samuel Figueroa is the scene stealer of ‘Footloose‘. Not once does he allow a moment to pass unnoticed. Whether positioned front and center or tucked away in the far right corner of the stage, Figueroa demands attention through sheer commitment and stage presence. His dancing is exceptional and his energy elevates every number in which he appears.
Kyle Hill also shines as Coach Dunbar, although his portrayal is considerably kinder than any coach I ever had growing up.
While it would be impossible to individually highlight every member of this talented company, several additional performers deserve recognition for their contributions. Ezion Garcia, Matthew Rangel, Rezia Landers and Alanna Armelin each bring their incredible skills to the production. Whether breaking the fourth wall, delivering standout dance moments or enhancing scenes through strong supporting work, they help transform an already entertaining show into something truly memorable.
Of course, no production succeeds on performances alone. Musical Director Nick Brave deserves tremendous credit for leading a dynamic and polished live orchestra that serves as the heartbeat of the show. Aria Roach’s lighting design enhances both the spectacle and intimacy of the production, while Shannon Callahan’s sound design ensures every song and emotional beat lands with clarity and impact. Combined with the efforts of the entire creative and technical team, the result is a production that feels polished, professional and full of life.
‘Footloose‘ at The GEM Theater is a joyous celebration of music, movement and community. Packed with outstanding performances, energetic choreography and heartfelt emotion, it is a production that captures everything audiences have loved about the story for more than 40 years while still feeling fresh and relevant today.
This is one show you absolutely cannot afford to miss.
‘Footloose‘ runs at The GEM Theater from now through July 12, 2026. To purchase tickets for ‘Footloose‘ visit: https://www.thegemoc.com/shows/footloose or call the Box Office at: +1-714-741-9550.
The GEM Theater is located at:
12852 Main St.
Garden Grove, CA 92840
5 out of 5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️