Leading Australian choreographer Keith Hawley (pictured) has started to put Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music students through their paces in preparation for this year’s major production.

Over 30 Bachelor of Music Theatre students will be performing songs and dance numbers from the 80s hit musical 'Footloose' from August 19-21 in the Conservatorium Theatre at CQU Mackay.

Mr Hawley will be conducting all-day rehearsals for the next three weeks in preparation for performances.

Sydney-based Hawley, whose career highlights include working as choreographer for Jackie Love on her international tour, Kelley Abbey in 'Sweet Charity' and Simon Gallaher in 'The Mikado', is also a professional photographer and his work appears in the program for 'The Lion King', now showing in Sydney.

“Already rehearsals have shown the student’s enthusiasm for live performance and the range of talent on offer at CQCM,” he said.

“The dance routines require the students to be extremely fit, while maintaining a sense of fun.

“I work the students very hard during these three weeks and this gives them a good sense of the level of commitment needed at a professional level. I see my role as both teacher and mentor and this production period provides an ideal opportunity to do both.”.

CQCM sub-dean Judith Brown expected the musical would match the outstanding success of last year’s major production 'Chicago'.

“Sell-out performances last year reflect the quality of CQCM productions and certainly Footloose will be no exception,” she said.

“These students are capable of bringing great energy to the stage and this outstanding show provides them with the opportunity to showcase their tremendous commitment to performance.”.

Limited tickets are available for Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances. For more details telephone Kim MacKenzie on 4940 7800.

Photo: Sydney-based choreographer Keith Hawley will spend the next three weeks putting students through their paces in preparation for this year’s major production 'Footloose'.