By Donya Hassanshahi
As the date of the spring musical, Footloose, comes closer, students are frantic to perform in front of families and students. With this being the final semester of the 2021-2022 school year, senior students participating in drama, are preparing for their roles in their last performance in this rendition of Footloose.
Photo courtesy of Hassanshahi
Elias Perez, ’22 prepares for his last show in the Redwood High School Drama department. This year, he was cast as a leading role, Willard Hewitt, in the musical. Receiving a leading role was a surprising experience for Perez. Considering this being his senior year, Perez believes playing Willard in this semester’s performance is both an, “honor… and brings [the character] to life.”
When describing his character, Perez characterized Willard as a, “stupid, loud, stubborn, wise, and funny” individual. He’s the comedic relief out of the lead characters.
The authenticity of Willard will be portrayed by Perez similar to ‘Talladega Knights,’ Larry the cable guy for [his] take, and a little inspiration from a personal friend.”
In preparation for the musical, rehearsals have been executed with “repetition and practice.” Perez has personally prepared for this leading role by, “watching a lot of redneck movies.”
Come opening night, and the dates that follow, Perez is enthusiastic to showcase all the hard work he’s implemented into the musical to his family.
To see Willard and other characters in this rendition of the coming of age film Footloose, the spring musical will debut for opening night on Thursday, February 17 at the LJ Williams Theater at 7pm.
Following dates include Friday, February 18 at 7pm and Saturday, February 19 2pm. All performances will take place at the LJ Williams Theater.
Donya Hassanshahi
Donya Hassanshahi, '24 is a third year journalism student writing for the Redwood Gigantea. She seeks interest in the Humans of Redwood, hoping to inspire the Redwood community with her writing. You can reach her by her email at donya.hassanshahi@gmail.com.
Tags: drama, footloose, lead, musical, rangers, Redwood, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, redwood journalism, redwood rangers, rhs, rhs drama, visalia ca
