Theatre & Stage reviews by SalsaChicago.com critic Al Bresloff

FOOTLOOSE In Lincolnshire (thru November 27th)

In the 1980's, the film "Footloose" was a huge success as it captured the spirit of the youth of that time. The story is about a High School student from Chicago who because his father has left, is forced to head to a small Midwestern town with his mother. What he finds is a shock to him because of an accident involving the local minister's son, the town has banned Rock n' Roll music and dancing. To complicate matters even more, our hero falls in love with the minister's daughter and together they stand up for their beliefs and work to bring the town back to what it was. Of course, they accomplish this and more, and everyone lives happily ever after. The movie was a fine vehicle for Kevin Bacon to show a different side of what he is capable of, but the music and the dancing helped a lot more. The original play form was very boring and cliche- BUT, you ain't seen nothing yet!

Once a show gets put on at The Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire, it takes on a new look. First of all, they use their Arena stage better than I have ever seen one used and each and every audience member gets a great view of the action. Secondly, they hire some of the best talent available (just when their regulars move on to other things, they find a whole new batch) and most importantly they have directors and choreographers who make each production unique with a personality that is all its own. I applaud the Marriott for continuing what began many years ago and like a fine wine, it just keep improving with age.

This production is directed by David H. Bell (need one say anything else) with Ryan Nelson handling the music direction, Set by Thomas M. Ryan, costumes by Nancy Missimi and lighting design by Diane Ferry Williams. The songs that most people remember from this story "Footloose", "Almost Paradise" and of course "Let's Hear It For The Boy" are all in place and once again, Mr. Bell has assembled a cast of newcomers to the Lincolnshire stage that will knock your sox off (in addition to a few of the regulars). Michael Gerhart is a very believable Reverend Shaw and his wife Vi is handled very smoothly by the always perfect Susan Moniz. Tyler Hanes is a strong Ren with a charming stage personality, great dancing ability and a wonderful voice, this is a young man who will be around for many years to come. Ariel, the reverend's daughter is Megan Reinking who works well with Tyler, so well that you actually feel that they could be a couple. Christopher Spaulding plays the charming oafish Willard who befriends Ren when he first comes to the school and is just plain fun to watch. His dance transformation during " Let's Hear it For The Boy" (sung with great zest and a dynamic voice by Carly Hughes) is worth coming to see on its own, but there are a great many more highlights to this MUST SEE production.This is a wonderful, young ensemble with some wonderful moments and some exciting dancing- you will be amazed at some of the choreography and the tumbling ability of Brandon Espinoza (who goes from side to side on the stage as if he were just out for a stroll). Enjoy this one! Have fun!

"Footloose" will run through November 27th at The Marriott Lincolnshire Theatre located on Marriott Drive (just south of Rte 22 and East of Rte 21 in Lincolnshire) as follows: Wednesday at 1 p.m. and 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday at 8 p.m. Saturday at 5 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Sunday at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Tickets are $42.00 for all shows (what a value) On Wednesday and Thursday evenings, receive a complimentary dinner in one of the resort restaurants ( subject to availability) There is of course plenty of free parking. For tickets visit the box office, call 847-634-0200 or visit www.marriotttheatre.com.