Flashdance: The Musical Transports You Back to the 80’s

TEEN AMBASSADOR: ARIANNA REBELO |  NOVEMBER 25, 2015

Three words to describe Flashdance the Musical: Dancing, dancing, and more dancing. The 1983 film is vividly brought to life on stage thanks to director and choreographer Paul Stancato. And not only does the dancing seem identical to the movie, but actress Julia Macchio’s drive to portray Alex Owens establishes the determination that was put in making the movie come to life.

The performance showcases “rich boy” Nick Hurley (played by Ryan Neal Green) falling for the “poor girl” Alex Owens. Throughout the show you follow Alex who works in a steel mill by day (owned by Nick) and dances in a bar at night. After much convincing from Nick, Alex decides to try getting accepted to a prestigious ballet academy, again, although her efforts are overlooked by Nick paying the school off for her attempts.

Not only does the soundtrack give you the feeling of being in the 80s, but with attire consisting of cropped sweaters, leg warmers, and bodysuits, you feel fully transported back to the flashy decade in seconds. Irene Cara’s ‘What a Feeling’ and Michael Sembello’s ‘Maniac’ are the iconic songs of the movies that are beautifully recreated on the stage thanks to Macchio’s graceful yet risqué performance. Not only are these two well known songs featured,  but the performance also includes the iconic water drop scene. It was an incredible way to lead into the intermission.