Wyoming Valley West features a musical annually to show off the talent of its students and give something entertaining to others. This year’s musical will be “Footloose” which is being directed by Mr. Hettrich.

The main character of Footloose is Ren McCormack, played by Aidan Slatky. “Ren is whitty and frustrated, he is unable to let go of things easily,” said Slatky.

 Ren is a big character for the musical, and requires a lot of acting and vocal talent to pull off. “I found my voice and then I knew I could do it, plus I like to perform on stage.” commented Slatky.

The lead female of Footloose is Ariel Moore, who is played by Maddy Chacko. “Ariel is a misunderstood teen. With her father as the reverend, she has many restrictions and expectations set to how she should act and behave. She disobeys these rules and gets a bad reputation from doing so.” Chacko continues, “She is a hopeless romantic who just wants to be loved. By going against the status quo, she sets an example for the kids of Bomont. She struggles with the loss of her brother, and the loss of her relationship with her father, but she is a lovable, smart, and witty girl.”

Ariel is a very emotional, and difficult character to play. Which is why someone experienced was given the role. “I’ve been doing musical theater since I was 7. My mom saw an ad in the newspaper for the Music Box Dinner Playhouse’s production of Annie. I decided I would give it a try and I was casted as an orphan. I fell in love with it and stuck with it ever since!” said Chacko.

The main antagonist of Footloose is Reverend Shaw Moore, who is played by Matthew Preiman. “Reverend Moore is sad and grieving, these emotions cause him to appear moody, and angry early on,” said Preiman. 

Shaw Moore requires someone stern, and vocal. The role works best with someone passionate. “I was inspired to join theater by my love of the arts and my love of music.” added Preiman.

Other characters include but are not limited to Willard Hewitt being played by Dennis Lee, Rusty being played by Raegan Cyszinski, Vi Moore being played by Clare Grenevich, Ethel McCormack being played by Sarina Rowe, and Chuck Cranstan being played by Matthias Ryder.

There are many other characters in the musical as well, but people never consider what happens behind the scenes, or during rehearsals. This show’s stage manager is Daniel Dempsey. “In a musical, I am responsible for making sure that everything runs smoothly. I help the director with blocking, and I occasionally fill in for people’s roles if they are not there.” said Dempsey.

Not just anyone can take this position though, you will need experience on stage. “I was inspired to take this position because of my experiences as a crew member last year. I wanted to get more involved and this was the best way to do that.” added Dempsey.

There are many more talented people in this year’s musical, and while the theater may not be for everyone, one won’t know unless they try. The show is set to perform at the end of March. It’s public for the community and everyone who can should watch it!