Toe-tapping musical Footloose is opening at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

After six months of rehearsals, members of Wolverhampton Musical Comedy Company will tonight bring their stage adaptation to life.

Holly Stringfellow, aged 27, of Pendeford, and an office worker plays Ariel Moore, the tearaway daughter of a minister in the musical.

She said: "I've been doing shows since I was four years old. I like Ariel because she's a bit like me – it means I can act a bit rebellious in my role." While David Walters, aged 24, a trainee legal executive, will take on the role of Ren McCormack, immortalised in the 1984 film by Hollywood star Kevin Bacon with hit songs by singer Kenny Loggins .

Mr Walters, also of Pendeford, said: "It's been hard work but you get used to being so busy."

Teaching assistant Tye Harris, aged 21 will play Ariel's first boyfriend Chuck Cranston. Mr Harris, who works at Wodensborough Community Technology College, in Wednesbury, said just a clutch of his pupils knew he was involved in the performance, which will run from tonight until Saturday.

"I'm not sure how many of them will come. I've just been enjoying what I've been doing," Mr Harris added.

Producer Denise Robinson hoped the cast would showcase all their hard work during the run at the theatre.

She said: "Lots of people know all the songs to Footloose and anyone who wants to come along and dance and sing with us in the aisles is welcome."

Tickets cost from £6 to £18 from the box office on 01902 429 212.