THE large number of vehicles inside the parking lot at the Mas Camp last Sunday morning was an indication that Footloose: The Showtime Edition had a bumper-sized crowd on the inside.

With the sounds of music from yesteryear blazing throughout the venue and ZJ Liquid in control, the vibe was right for an unforgettable evening.

Patrons soaked up songs that they grew up listening to, while the younger members of the crowd bopped their heads moving to the beat.

Sponsored by Campari, Footloose: The Showtime Edition, headlined by veteran dancehall artiste Capleton was a blazing affair.

Prior to Capleton's performance, 1990s hits by Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Professor Nuts, Cham, Lady Saw, and several others permeated the atmosphere causing a dancing frenzy.

But it was the arrival of Capleton that sent patrons scurrying to the front of the stage. The self-styled 'fireman' blazed a scorching inferno as he ripped through the hits that made him an in-demand act.

Tour, Or Wah, That Day Will Come, Bung Dung Dreddie, Hunt You, Inna Har Heart, More Prophet, and Good Inna Har Clothes assisted the St Mary-born artiste on his musical voyage.

"Footloose ah one ah di stalwart party dem so when the call came, we had to do this event. The people dem go for songs with longevity and substance and it was a great vibe. The people were definitely into the performance, they sang the songs, danced and hold a joy while still getting the message," Capleton told the Jamaica Observer shortly after his performance.

The entertainer said he is keen on the message of unity reaching the masses.

"It's about the unity of the people. The struggles, the sacrifices, the people have to be strong mentally. The greatest thing is for the message to reach the people. It's important to know where you're coming from and the direction to where you're heading to," the artiste, whose real name is Clifton Bailey, explained.

After a nearly one-hour set, Capleton exited the stage to a throng of fans waiting for photo opportunities. Footloose, promoted by Broadway Productions, returns early in the new year.