Review of a show that never happened: ‘Footloose' at La Comedia Dinner Theatre
Since the show was canceled, Mike didn't get to see Footloose. But that didn't stop him writing a review. So close your eyes and join him on a visit to La Comedia.
Review of a show that never happened: ‘Footloose' at La Comedia Dinner Theatre
“I’ve got this feeling, that time’s just holding me down. I’ll hit the ceiling or else I’ll tear up this town.” Can you relate? Those lyrics take on a whole new meaning with the shut-in from Covid - 19. We are all ready to cut loose.
For several years I’ve been attending every show at La Comedia Dinner Theatre, and am feeling a bit of a loss with the cancellation of ‘Footloose.’ It’s important to maintain some sense of normalcy so am going to lose my blues and go Footloose. Close your eyes, no strike that, just open up your mind and join me on a visit to La Comedia.
First, shortly after being seated, it’s discovered that the small cup of cheese spread that’s already at the table, just isn’t big enough. It’s a blessing in disguise though because otherwise I’d fill up on it. Typically at buffets I bypass the salad, but at La Comedia it’s brought to you. Due to the papaya chutney dressing, I even eat it.
After getting personally invited down to the buffet, at least one person always unsuspectingly grabs a hot plate. A regular then suggests using a napkin to help buffer the heat. Has anyone ever not seen that play out? It never fails. With a helping of sweet potato soufflé, fish (prepared in a premium beer batter) and an assortment of other items there’s hardly any room left on the plate for a slice of freshly carved meat. Plus, there’s still the bread cart too. Good thing my pockets are empty.
When our bellies are full (after a second trip to the buffet), La Comedia changes from a restaurant to a theater. Then with a great amount of pride and pleasure, ‘Footloose’ is presented. It’s a high energy production with impressive footwork and tremendous music, under the masterful direction of Chris Beiser.
In the role of Ren, made famous by Kevin Bacon in the 1984 film, Ben - David Carlson really sizzles. His fancy footwork and smooth vocals never miss a beat. His performance is spirited enough to make a ruler bend an inch. The question though is, is it enough to influence a rigid minister?
The minister is played by none other than Chris Kramer. Between being a minister in the numerous versions of the Church Basement Ladies and now serving as Rev. Moore, Kramer might actually be ordained. If you are familiar with the Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, how about the Six Degrees of Chris Kramer? (Sounds like a book idea for the gift shop) All who have ever appeared on the La Comedia stage are Six Degrees of Chris Kramer. Few of Kramer’s illustrious performances though are as powerful as his portrayal of the reverend.
You’ve heard of Bennifer and Brangelina, but what about Kramland? It’s the name for Kramer and Karie- Lee Sutherland, La Comedia’s super couple. The duo is often paired together and make perfect harmony in more ways than one. This time Sutherland is Vi, the minister’s wife.
The stellar cast also includes Digger Howard (a.k.a. Crutch for all the support he always provides in his roles) as Willard. If Howard is Crutch, that makes Desmond Thomas a Walker. Thomas helps everyone stand tall in every performance, even when playing the despicable Chuck Cranston.
Other standouts are Hannah Brown as Ariel and Tonya Oslack (Rusty) who gives a rousing rendition of ‘Let’s Hear it for the Boys.’
Speaking of Ariel, let’s hope that we are able to actually attend ‘The Little Mermaid’ in June.
Did you enjoy this story by Mike Woody? If so, read about his experience of quarantine in Mission: Non-Essential. My Life in Pajamas
