Rehearsals for the theatre department’s upcoming production of Footloose started on Tuesday evening, but many cast members have been preparing all semester.

The musical, based on the 1984 film, has rigorous dance requirements. Many cast members have been implementing healthy eating habits and working out for a number of weeks in preparation for their roles.

“Dancing is exhausting,” said Alexandra Bonneau, junior musical theatre major from Dallas, who plays Urleen in the show. “A three minute dance routine is the equivalent of three minutes on the elliptical. Throw singing on top of that and you have a recipe for disaster unless you’re trained for it.”

Bonneau has been working out at least four days a week and drinking three liters of water per day in addition to adjusting portion sizes when eating. She, just like many cast members, wants to be prepared for the show.

“I have dreamed of doing this show for a number of years,” Bonneau said. “Since I’ve been given the opportunity to perform something I’ve been dying to do, I figured I was going to do it right.”

Jace Reinhard, junior musical theatre major from Greenville, Ill., will be playing Ren McCormack, the show’s rebellious lead and has been practicing in the Student Wellness and Recreation Center.

“I’ve been going to the Bank regularly for a few weeks and I will continue through the rehearsal process,” Reinhard said. “I’m gonna have to keep in the habit of staying active and vocalizing at the same time.”

Reinhard has also added more protein to his diet in order to gain more body mass.

“That’s just the physical type of Ren,” Reinhard said. “A little bit more cut and toned than I am right now, but I’m working toward it.”

Reinhard also said he is excited about the show. He said he thinks audiences will get a sense of nostalgia.

Dawne Swearingen-Meeks is directing the show.

“The dancing is absolutely going to be a rigorous process,” said Swearingen-Meeks, associate professor of theatre. “We are working to be honest to the style of the 1980s.”

Swearingen-Meeks said she has been impressed by her students.

“I am proud of our students not only for their determination to get in shape physically but for the humble focus they bring in working to stay fit emotionally and spiritually,” she said. “Our students are seekers and long to be Christian artist storytellers. That makes me proudest as both aspects require stamina.”

The director also said she is excited that ACU has allowed the students to perform in a show like Footloose at a Church of Christ-affiliated university with a long history of resistance to dance.

“Dance can be joyful. It is biblical. It is scriptural. It can bring about healing and a positive way to express ourselves through God’s creative license,” she said.

Footloose will play April 12-13, 19-20, and 26-27 in the Williams Performing Arts Center’s Fulks Theatre. Tickets can be purchased online at acu.edu/theatre or by calling 674-2787.