This year’s Tri-school production of “Footloose” is more than just a musical — it is a fast-paced, high-energy collaboration built on trust, creativity and connection.
A Mercy High School student who plays an adult ensemble member described her character as “very boring and unpleasant to be around,” someone who resists fun and excitement. Yet behind the scenes, Racquiza said rehearsals were the complete opposite: “Very chaotic, but very exciting and thrilling.”
Racquiza added that vocal rehearsals were filled with energy, with each performer bringing life and personality to their songs. Dance rehearsals also played a major role in shaping the production, as choreography helped define each character and unite the cast into a cohesive performance. That sense of unity was especially important given the production’s unique structure. With students from different schools — an all-girls environment at NDB and Mercy combined with their brother school Serra — the cast had to quickly build trust and chemistry. According to performers, that challenge ultimately became one of the show’s greatest strengths.
Another cast member, Jonal Buan, a senior at Junipero Serra High School, took on the role of Ren McCormick, the show’s central character. He described Ren as “a very unserious kind of guy” who often hides his pain behind humor. His interpretation added depth to a character audiences might otherwise see as simply rebellious, highlighting the emotional struggles beneath the surface.
Opening night audience member Monica Gundim said, “You could really feel how much work and heart went into this production … it made the whole show really special to watch.”
Jonash said one of the biggest messages audiences will take away is the importance of forgiveness — an idea that feels especially relevant both in the story and in real life.
In the end, the collaboration was not just about putting on a show. It brought different communities together, told a meaningful story and created something memorable. Based on the performance, this year’s “Footloose” did exactly that.
