Two students with differing abilities recently “cut loose” in Mountain Creek Middle School’s production of “Footloose – Youth Edition,” bringing energy, dedication and joy.

Ninth-grader Liliana Mattson is no stranger to performing.

“I was in Anastasia last year,” she said.

This year, Liliana has embraced the experience of being in the school musical, especially the community it has built.

“I like being in ‘Footloose’ with friends. I’ve made some new friends this year,” she said.

Even with months of rehearsals, Liliana said she was both “excited and nervous” before the curtain opened April 23 for several shows.

“I’m in a lot of songs and dances. It makes me happy. It’s fun to perform with everyone,” she said.

Liliana is joined by a classmate, eighth grader Brexton Shields.

“It’s a fun thing to do; I’m ready to perform in front of people,” he said before opening night. “I sing in the school choir so I’m excited.”

One of Brexton’s favorite parts of the show is being in the congregation scene.

“I’ll wear my own suit just like going to church,” he said.

Their teacher, Karlee English, has seen both students become more self-reliant through the experience and it has helped to build a more inclusive school community.

“They both have taken theater classes before, but now they’re included in the show; anytime that happens, everyone learns and benefits,” she said. “They’ve learned about being in a theater production — memorization and stage presence, but they’ve also become more confident. It’s Brexton’s first experience, but Lilliana has performed before. She comes alive on stage.”