Flashdance, The Musical, thrills Keyano Theatre audience

Valentine’s Day was celebrated at Keyano Theatre with a dazzling opening performance of Flashdance The Musical directed by Karen Towsley.

With captivating dance at its core, Flashdance The Musical tells the inspiring story of Alex Owens (played by Helen Killorn), a Pittsburgh steel mill welder by day and a bar dancer by night, with dreams of one day becoming a professional performer.

Flashdance The Musical boasts an impressive cast of more than 30 local community actors, ranging from teenagers to seniors, first-time actors and seasoned stage veterans. Director Karen Towsley, who acted, directed, and taught drama in Fort McMurray for over 30 years, says that putting together a musical is a huge commitment for the volunteer actors:

“The triple-threats in this production have full-time jobs or are full-time students with part-time jobs and dance classes, and they rehearse a minimum of 20 hours a week. Rehearsals are intense, but always full of joy! For many, working on this show is the highlight of their day.”

She believes that community theatre has never been more important for Wood Buffalo:

“With all the stressors of life seeming to intensify daily, having a place to create, share passion, be included and supported, and celebrate our common humanity is essential,” Karen says. “The performers and creators need it and the audience needs it. Among many other things, theatre is life-affirming and there's something about singing every day that is good for the soul!”

The show features a score that includes the biggest hit songs from the iconic 1980s movie, including the Academy Award-winning title song “Flashdance – What a Feeling”, “Maniac”, “Gloria”, “Manhunt”, and “I Love Rock & Roll”.

Flashdance The Musical plays at Keyano Theatre February 15, 20, 21, and 22 at 8 PM, with a 2 PM matinee performance on February 22. Tickets for the performance can be purchased at the Keyano Box Office, by calling 780-791-4990, or online at keyano.ca/theatre.