"Footloose" musical to rock Rozsa Mar. 24

Footloose poster courtesy Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts.

HOUGHTON -- In the 1980s, Kevin Bacon stepped onto the big screen in a pair of worn-out jeans and a t-shirt and danced his way into the hearts of women and teenage girls in a movie called Footloose. The dance movie genre was big with Flashdance, Grease and Dirty Dancing -- and these movies became classics. Now, Footloose the musical is back in a 10th Anniversary Tour, better than ever -- and LIVE on stage at the Rozsa Center at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Mar. 24.

Footloose has audiences across the country on their feet and dancing in the aisles as they leave. The music is contagious; and audiences will remember almost every word of the Solid Gold hits: "Let’s Hear It For The Boy," "Almost Paradise," "Holding Out For A Hero," "I’m Free (Heaven Help the Man)" and the title song, "Footloose." This exuberant, briskly-paced musical is blessed with the same kind of infectious energy, camp and humor that makes Grease a perennial favorite.

When Ren and his mother move from the slick and fast-paced Chicago to a small farming town, Ren is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. What he isn’t prepared for are the rigorous local laws -- including a ban on dancing. The ban is the brain-child of the local preacher, who is determined to exercise the strict control over the town’s youth that he cannot command in his own home.

Then the Reverend’s rebellious daughter, Ariel, sets her sights on Ren. But her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, which has many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid as well. The "no dancing" edict is strongly enforced by the uptight townspeople, led by the minister himself. But it’s just as vigorously challenged by Ren; the preacher’s daughter, Ariel; Ren’s buddy, Willard; and a host of other high school kids who just want to have a prom, dance and have fun.

Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people while guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind. Bring the whole family to enjoy this exhilarating performance of heart-stopping music and dance! Footloose is appropriate entertainment for ages 10+.

Sponsored by the James and Margaret Black Endowment.

Ticket prices for the general public are $25 and $20; MTU student prices are $20 and $15 (MTU student ID required). To purchase tickets contact the Rozsa Box Office at 487-3200, the Central Ticket Office (SDC) at 487-2073, Tech Express (MUB) at 487-3308 or go online at tickets.mtu.edu. No refunds, exchanges, or late seating, please.