By Rob Forleo
Special to the Voice
West Haven High School Theatre Workshop brought energy and emotion to the stage with its spring production of Footloose, performed in the West Haven High School Auditorium over three days from Thursday, March 26 through Saturday, March 28, with four total performances. The musical tells the story of a town learning to embrace joy and self-expression through lively performances that connected deeply with the audience.
Director Christina Nolan said the show presented both a challenge and an opportunity for her first year leading the program.
“I wanted to see how these students would handle classic material with demanding roles, while also connecting with songs that people know and love,” she said.
Nolan noted the cast exceeded expectations in every way. She highlighted the band’s performance, the students’ emotional engagement, and the moments when the audience connected with the story. Her hope was that audiences felt both the story’s heartfelt moments and the enjoyment of live theater, leaving with a sense of happiness.
Nolan also praised the teamwork behind the scenes. When a flu outbreak hit just before tech week, students stepped into missing roles, understudies rose to the occasion, and rehearsals continued without interruption.
“Watching everyone support one another during that time showed the true spirit of this group,” she said. “They rose above the challenge and made the show incredible.”
Travis Dyer, a junior who played Rev. Shaw Moore, reflected on the bond between cast and crew. Rev. Moore is the town minister who must balance his sense of responsibility with supporting his daughter and the community as they challenge old rules.
“Everyone was immediately supportive of each other through the highs and lows of rehearsal and performance,” Travis said. “We helped each other with makeup, hairstyles, food, rides, and advice. Even with sickness affecting some members, the flow of rehearsal never stopped. Being part of this show felt like being part of a family.” Travis said the experience gave him personal growth beyond the stage. “I learned so much about myself, my friends, and the people around me. This show changed the way I see myself and the way I perform.”
Senior Esmeralda Sisson, who portrayed Ethel McCormack, emphasized the importance of collaboration. Ethel is a high school student navigating first love while embracing her own independence in a town full of rules.
“The teamwork of the cast and crew really brings Footloose to life,” Esmeralda said. “The crew builds the world, the cast fills it with music and emotion, and together we take the audience on a journey.” Reflecting on her final spring play, Esmeralda described the lasting impact of theatre workshop. “This program has given me new skills, lifelong memories, and connections I will carry with me,” she said. “Even as I returned my costumes, I realized I will always carry pieces of this show and this group with me.”
When the final curtain fell, the cast and crew filled the stage with life and emotion. Every scene showed the students’ commitment, leaving the audience impressed and moved by the performance. The production closed out the year on a strong note, building excitement for what is ahead and setting the stage for both returning performers and new faces to take the spotlight next season.
