CHS Footloose Cast Interview: Behind the Scenes!

By Natalia Pepe, 2028

Published 3/26/25

Cheshire High School’s production of Footloose is a dynamic blend of energy, passion, and dedication, brought to life by a committed cast and crew. For those involved, this high-energy musical has been an unforgettable experience, pushing them to new heights in their craft and forging irreplaceable memories along the way.

Ninth grader Adam Noam, playing Bickle and performing in the ensemble, shares his thoughts on the differences between middle and high school productions. “This one is a lot bigger of a commitment.” He said.  “Its more put-together, a lot more complex, and there’s a lot more rehearsals.” Despite the fact that three words Adam thinks best describe the production are “Very. Time. Consuming.” Adam adds that this has been an exciting step up from his previous theater experiences. He particularly enjoys the high-energy numbers such as Still Rockin’. “Still Rockin’ is my favorite [song and dance number] because the dance is very fun to do.” 

Although as a freshman, balancing the schedule of rehearsals has been a challenge, Adam has learned a lot from his experience. “Trying to stay sane” has been his biggest hurdle, he admits, but the process has been incredibly rewarding. For Elaia Wilson, a freshman who plays Cowgirl, being a part of Footloose has been also been new challenging opportunity for growth. “It’s a lot more hours and I have fewer lines,” she says, comparing it to her previous productions. Elaia, like Adam, also connects to her character on a personal level. When asked which character she relates to most, Elaia chose her character–Cowgirl,  and Adam chose his character–Bickle. “He says ‘party in your pants,’ and that’s really weird. And I’m really weird,” Adam explains.

Returning cast member Riley O’Brien is no stranger to the Cheshire High School stage, having performed in previous CHS productions such as The Addams Family and Mean Girls. This year, she takes on the role of Coach Dunbar in Footloose. Riley says that her favorite number is Footloose/On Any Sunday “Because its the only one I actually know how to sing.”Despite her experience, Riley describes that the most challenging part of being in a production like Footloose is “just managing my time and my mental health.” 

Leading the show as Ren McCormack is Nate Markman, who is balancing this production while preparing for his future. “I really want to do a lot more acting stuff in the future, and I am minoring in dance, so those are two really important aspects of theater that I will be pursuing throughout college and beyond,” he says. Nate connects personally to one of Ren’s lines, ‘I can’t stand still.’ “I say it a lot as my character,” he explains. “And I feel like that does not just relate to my character in the show, but me in real life. Sometimes I feel like I have the need to dance all the time.” Nate additionally described that balance is key to a good performance. “I’m a decent dancer and actor, but singing is where my capabilities kind of fall a little dry.” Nate says that it is important for him to ask  himself “How much dancing should I do so my singing is also good?’ versus ‘How much singing should I do so that the dancing doesn’t fall behind?’" Apart from onstage, Nate also highlights the importance of balancing theater life with school and personal life. “It’s not just finding the mix between dancing, singing, and acting; it’s also getting that balance with your academics and your theater time.”

Nate describes Cheshire High School’s production of Footloose in three words: “vivacious, forgiveness, and contrasting.” Although Nate shines onstage with his acting, singing, and dancing talents, his favorite memories actually happen in the wings. “Everything we do backstage or in the wings is just so fun. While there are other people on stage, we’ll just fool around with each other.” Nate remarks. “Every time [Holding out for a Hero] is on, I’m in my roller skates and I'm dancing backstage even though I barely know it.” 

Come support CHS Drama and its talented cast and crew by watching Footloose on March 27th, 28th, and 29th at 7:30 PM in the CHS Auditorium!