It was Saturday, April 4, 2009. In fifteen minutes, the final performance--a matinee-- of "Footloose the Musical" presented by the middle and high school would open with a gigantic dance number. Director Mary Corrigan scurried across Vine Street, carrying a large tray of cupcakes. A friend held an umbrella over her head. And over the cupcakes.

Olivia Drown was one of the students handing out programs. "It's fun. I get to see everyone who goes in," she said. The lobby was crowded. The crowd was lively.

Magen Farley's father, Mark, was carrying a bouquet of pale yellow carnations mixed with baby's breath for his daughter. She played Betty of the "Burger Blast" scene.

Lisa LaRose was there because her sister, Madeleine Chapman, had designed the costumes, along with Susan LaValley. "We come every year," she said happily. "The productions are amazing!"

Karen Cassavant, who directed the musical side of "Peter Pan" last year but has since moved away, was present. "I came to see my kids."

Ben Clark, now a junior at UVM, said his mother had come to every show. It was Ben's first viewing. His sister, Molly, played Ariel. "So that's the whole plan. That's why we're here." The family filled nearly two rows of seats.

The Intermission:

Charles Seip, who lives in Williamstown, came to applaud his cousin, Katelyn Gray.

David DeFelice said his daughter, Mary Ada, was doing very well, had been very, very busy since they started rehearsing in January and was probably going to sleep very well.

Patrick Amell, a high schooler, gave the show a "Nine." (We're sure it was a ten by the final curtain.)

Lyn and Norm Vercoe came all the way from East Montpelier to honor their niece, Mary Corrigan, and to enjoy the show. "Just think of those kids in school trying to study and doing this too!"

Paul Mascitti, who drove over from Plainfield, commented that the auditorium was ninetyeight percent full. "When somebody brings this much entertainment to your doorstep, you have to see it."

The Parking Lot:

We rolled down the car window to ask four men from the Trijang Buddhist Institute (we recognized their robes) how they liked the show. "Yes. Yes," they said in unison. "Very nice."

What did you do over the weekend? Let us know please. commontalk@trans-video.net.