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Farmers Branch native takes frontstage in Footloose

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Footloose is hitting the stage at The Firehouse Theatre this month and the star of the show, Ren McCormack, will be played by Farmers Branch Andrew Cave.

“I’ve lived in Farmers Branch all of my life,” Cave told Firehouse Associate Producer Owen Beans. 

Cave attended Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD schools including McLaughlin Elementary, Vivian Field Middle School and R.L. Turner High School and he’s no stranger to the stage, growing up in a family that encourages the arts. 

“I’ve done theatre at The Firehouse for many years, most recently as Race in Disney’s Newsies, along with dancing at the studio owned by my mother, Amy Cave, Amy’s Studio of Performing Arts,” he said. “I’ve performed all around the metroplex including Garland, Irving, Euless and Fort Worth.”

Known to several generations, Footloose first hit the big screen as a major motion picture in 1984 starring Kevin Bacon as Ren. A Broadway musical adaptation debuted in October 1998 and ran until July 2000. More than a decade later, the film received a reboot with a new cast, including dancer Julianne Hough, Dennis Quaid and Andie MacDowell. 

“It’s such an exciting experience getting to play a role that is known by different generations; to some as a classic or to some as an oldie,” Cave said. “Most of all I have been ecstatic getting to work with our director, Austin, as we’ve found a way to put my personal twist on who Ren is all while keeping true to the character Mr. Bacon and screenwriter Dean Pitchford created back in the 80s.” 

Director and Choreographer J. Austin Eyer shares Cave’s enthusiasm for the production. 

“This is my second time working at The Firehouse Theatre and I am thrilled to be back,” Eyer said. “The cast’s energy is infectious and they deliver all the fun and excitement that audiences have come to expect from a production of Footloose.”

Eyer, currently an Assistant Professor and Head of Musical Theatre at the University of Texas at Arlington, has multiple Broadway credits under their belt and promises surprises for the audience with this production. 

“Come for the dancing, but stay for the warm feels!” Eyer said. 

While the show is known for its dancing and fun-filled musical scenes, there is a much deeper meaning. 

“I hope the audience leaves each night remembering that life is a one-time experience. So much hardship and sorrow plagues the world, so find time to bring joy into your life or even be the joy in someone else’s life,” Cave said. “Go out for adventures, meet new people, go dance, have fun and live a life you’ll remember well!”

Footloose runs at The Firehouse Theatre from May 16 to June 2. Tickets are $36 for adults and $32 for students, seniors, educators and first responders. Saturday matinee performances are $32. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.thefirehousetheatre.com. The Firehouse Theatre is located at 2535 Valley View Lane in Farmers Branch.