Nikki Snelson

But the pair of leads? Breathtaking. The production finds the perfect balance and never loses its infectious joy. It’s a fun, energetic and engrossing rendition of an 80’s classic (but with better choreography): “Footloose” at the Gem is a marvel and a must-see. It’s running through July 12, so put on your red boots and get down there!

Nikki Snelson, the director and choreographer, has extensive Broadway, regional, and international credits as a performer and creator. Snelson’s direction is thoughtful, energetic, and layered, capturing both the exuberance of the iconic numbers and the more earnest attempts at emotional expansion in the added songs. Where the production truly excels is with its choreography: vigorous, precise, and staged with real momentum. The ensemble — clearly full of performers still actively in thrall to discovering and making theater in real time — brings an infectious energy that drives the show forward. Strong direction and choreography — particularly in large musical set pieces like Let’s Hear It for the Boy (a number that should be sculpted into the Mount Rushmore of musical theater, Orange County Chapter) elevate the production. It’s fun, frequently ecstatic, and a blast to watch.

Footloose burst onto the Gem Theatre stage with a huge dose of excitement and exhilaration, and from the moment the unwavering enthusiastic cast brings on its big boisterous opening dance moves. The audience is instantaneously aware that One More Productions magic spell has been cast and under the tutelage of veteran director in choreographer Nikki Snelson this nostalgic eye popping musical is not only a story about big city boy move to conservative small town, but also a phenomenal celebration of one of life's greatest gifts of expression-Dance.

Directed and Choreographed by Broadway’s Nikki Snelson, Footloose is now running through July 12, 2026, at the historic GEM Theatre in Garden Grove. Get a first look at production photos!

Under the direction and choreography of Broadway veteran Nikki Snelson, this production offers far more than a nostalgic tribute. It delivers an energetic, emotionally resonant and thoroughly authentic interpretation that connects with audiences across generations.

Photos: Morgan Scott, Samantha Tullie, Logan Eliza in THE CHER SHOW Regional Premiere

A long-standing Moonlight occurrence is the strength and talent of the Ensemble assembled for every musical. Tremendous dancing, singing and acting fills every Moonlight stage and this musical is not different. With the over 35 songs in the musical there are numerous opportunities for this Ensemble to shine.

It marks the first time the musical has been presented in San Diego County. It’s the first time I’ve seen this caliber of high-flying choreography on the Moonlight stage. Director-choreographer Nikki Snelson’s production is lively, fast-paced and funny. It has a terrific cast and features outstanding, Broadway-quality dancing

"Heartbreak Hotel is a high-octane, high-energy performance that will bring back many memories for alot of you and create new ones for those experiencing the King and his life for the very first time."

"Theatre By the Sea concludes its 2025 season with the Elvis Presley musical “Heartbreak Hotel,” a rousing and deeply emotional rendering of the musician’s life."

"But let's begin with a tip of the hat to director-choreographer Nikki Snelson, whose skills were wildly apparent in the extraordinary, high-energy dance numbers. Snelson kept the large cast moving, and moving splendidly."

"Hebel is simply amazing as Elvis. He starts off as a 19-year-old and takes the King past his 33rd birthday. As the character ages, Hebel’s “Elvis” matures, both in his mannerisms and his voice. Hebel’s performance is not an impersonation. It’s more an interpretation while staying true to the Elvis almost everyone knows."

"Nikki Snelson’s strong directing choices, along with her creative, fresh choreography, make this one of the best TBTS shows in recent memory."

"Directed and choreographed by Nikki Snelson, this season-opening production really sings, with a strong vocal ensemble and exuberant, athletic dancing."

"Directed and choreographed by Nikki Snelson, this show offers audience-pleasing dance numbers. “Greased Lightning,” is a car accident ode to a dream car with acrobatics, dancing, and a car quick change. “Born to Hand Jive,” led by Eli Wood, had audiences dancing in their seats as the high school dance turns into a fierce dance competition. Catchy, cheeky, and never too serious, Grease will have you singing all the way home."

"This production of Footloose is directed and choreographed by Broadway veteran Nikki Snelson and will be opening February 20 and running through March 9. With its unforgettable music, dynamic choreography, and compelling story, Footloose promises to be an exhilarating and emotional experience for audiences of all ages."

"Ultimately, ‘Legally Blonde’ is timeless. It’s a story of love, redemption and being true to yourself against all odds. It’s been especially interesting to watch the audience’s reaction as the “Me Too” movement has evolved. In many ways, the story of Elle Woods and ‘Legally Blonde’ is more poignant now than it was 17 years ago. As a woman director/choreographer, I relate to many of the characters as they try to make their mark while remaining true to their principals."

The ensemble showed up and showed out throughout the production. It was clear Snelson encouraged everyone to add their own flair and personality to each scene. From the hunched-over courtroom recorder (Grace Arnold) to the annoyed patron on his cell phone at the dinner table (Brandon L. Smith), you could see that everyone put their stamp on this production of LEGALLY BLONDE.

"The chief culprit in making this production so elegantly perfect has to be director/choreographer Nikki Snelson (who played Brooke in the original cast). This was the best-directed production of this show I have experienced – and I have experienced many."

"From start to finish this show packs the energy and laughs"