Forget those winter blues: opt for some catchy tunes and high-kicking dance routines.

Footloose the Musical is sure to brighten up your week, whether you watched the 1984 Kevin Bacon film or not.

The musical, which first opened on Broadway in 1998 and in London in 2006, tells the story of city boy Ren, who moves to a rural backwater in America where dancing is banned. But he can't resist it and all hell breaks loose.

Leading the cast is Luke Baker who can definitely dance. And back-flip. And sing.

Joining him is Gareth Gates, who was runner-up in ITV’s Pop Idol – the forerunner to X Factor – in 2001, and now carving out a career in musicals, having already appeared in Legally Blonde and Joseph and the Amazing Technocolor Dreamcoat.

His character, Willard, isn't meant to be a good dancer and it appears this suits Gareth down to the ground. He has a great voice though, and look out for a revealing scene with some gold hotpants where he is concerned.

Also starring is Nolans star Maureen Nolan, as Vi Moore, an accomplished singer, actor and dancer who shows her experienced status well.

The sell-out first night had the audience foot-tapping and singing along, even though it was a Monday night. Imagine what it could do for you at the weekend.

Click here to read our interview with Gareth Gates.

DETAILS

Footloose will be at Dartford’s Orchard Theatre from Monday, February 8 to Saturday, February 13. Tickets cost from £20. To book go to orchardtheatre.co.uk or call 01322 220000.