One of the most explosive movie musicals in recent memory bursts onto the live stage with exhilarating results.

The Majestic Academy of Dramatic Arts will present “Footloose: youth edition” on Jan. 26 to  28.

When Ren and his mother move from Chicago to a small farming town, he is prepared for the inevitable adjustment period at his new high school. What he isn’t prepared for are the rigorous local edicts, including a ban on dancing instituted by the local preacher, determined to exercise  control over the town’s youth that he cannot command in his own home.

When the reverend’s rebellious daughter sets her sights on Ren, her roughneck boyfriend tries to sabotage Ren’s reputation, with many of the locals eager to believe the worst about the new kid. The heartfelt story that emerges is of a father longing for the son he lost and of a young man aching for the father who walked out on him. To the rockin’ rhythm of its Oscar and Tony-nominated Top 40 score (the soundtrack album reached number one on the Billboard charts and has sold over 17 million copies!) and augmented with dynamic new songs for the stage musical, Footloose celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people, guiding them with a warm heart and an open mind.

Majestic’s “Footloose: youth edition” stars children and teens of The Majestic Academy of Dramatic Arts under the Direction of Becca Antonakos-Belanger, Musical Assistance by A. Robert Dionne.

“Footloose” celebrates the exhilaration of youth, the wisdom of listening to one another, and the power of forgiveness. Showtimes Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Performances will be held at The Derry Opera House located at 29 West Broadway, Derry.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors 65 and above, and $10 for youth 17 and under. Tickets can be purchased by visiting or calling the box office at 603-669-7469, online at majestictheatre.net or at the door prior to the performance. The Majestic is a non-profit NH community arts organization. Visit majestictheatre.net for more information.