Everybody cut FOOTLOOSE!

Tis the season of spring musicals. Last night I went to a middle school production of "Footloose" that was directed by my friend, Ron. There is nothing more heart-warming than watching awkward middle school boys try to dance. Except maybe a love song between 2 kids that can't even look at each other. Unfortunately, photos were not allowed; man, i want to show you the 80s-tastic costumes. When you go to school plays, especially musicals, you have to turn the expectation knob waaaaaaaay down. Sets are often minimal, actors are often the wrong size, race and even gender (ask me sometime about Josie and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat), sound is sketchy and the singing is flat. But there are always a couple moments when you can see real talent up there. And the kids are so gosh darn earnest. They are really trying. If you go, be sure to watch the parents around you - they know their kids are out of step, but the love and pride is naked on each face. And definitely go on the last night of a run so that you can see the presents the kids give to the directors and to hear the roar of joy and accomplishment from the cast after the last curtain call. Support your local schools' artistic efforts. They may never get to off-off-off-off-off-off-off Broadway, but you'll have a good time. (just turn that knob waaaaaaaay down)