Presented by the Young Performers this remake of the American musical has been adapted for Durban audiences by Director Daisy Spenser. Music Director Dawn Shelby also takes to the stage with the live band “The Reals”, which includes well known Durban guitarist Barry Thompson.
Other than local places and accents, the story follows the original theme; a tale of a conflicted city boy who makes waves in a small town.
So were the youngsters up to the task ? I think they were. Whilst they carry off the signature tune “Footloose” and Bonnie Tyler’s “Holding Out for a Hero” well, there are other songs where the singers chorus beautifully.
Mentor and Production Supervisor Themi Venturas’s must be over the moon when he sees the latent that he has unleashed on the Sneddon’s Stage. The show isn’t just enjoyable, it leaves the audience with a comforting sense that we have many young starts in Durban to entertain us well into the future.
Standouts for me were Sarah Heron’s powerful voice and a fine acting performance by lead star Joshua Milne whose natural confidence on stage will take him a long way if he embarks on a professional acting career.
Thanks again to Illa and Sophie for the nod !
