Singin' In The Rain

Youth Productions in my opinion are like a crystal ball they offer a small glimpse into the future; they give you an indication of the future local talent we have to look forward to - Castle Newnham School is a perfect example of this.  So I was particularly excited to be invited to review their production of Singin’ in the Rain   It was to be the first production in their new “Studio One Performance Theatre” offering a slightly more intimate feel for smaller audiences.  

We were welcomed into the theatre with the audio of rain and thunder as we took our seats – the stage was at stall seating level.  The theatre was set to blacks cleverly adorned with reversible narrow trucks giving the image of a brick wall on one side and garden trellis’ on the other side.  There was a garden bench stage left.   To stage right there was a small raised performance area accessed by two sets of five steps set to right angles.  This provided additional space both as a stage and occasionally a second seating area.  Because of its size this was clever use of the space available.  

There was also the clever addition of suspended clear umbrellas at ceiling height.

This cast guided by the capable Luke Skeel were a mixture of year 7 to 9 (11- 14 year olds) had two different casts – I was present for the Thursday evening performance.

Singin’ in the Rain tells the story of silent movie “On and off-screen couple” Don Lockwood (Alistair Porteous) and Lina Lamont (Lara Throssell-Hunt) and their transition to talkie movies.  Whilst their Studio head R.F Simpson (Javai James) dismisses the threat of such movies, its not until the Jazz Singer proves such a huge hit does he realise they need to change.   Enter Don’s best friend and musician Cosmo Brown (Santiago Parra Whitehead) to guide them through the transition; sadly, only Don has the voice, both conversationally and musically to pull it off.  And then he meets Kathy Seldon (Ellie Johnson) a chorus girl with a voice to die for who is trying to make it big in the movies.  Lina on the other hand has no intention of stepping aside and is determined to make the crossover herself regardless of the expense to anyone else along the way – including Kathy.

Sound provided by Ms Sheridan Carlile, which on the whole was spot on and inventive – the microphones were either always on or cued perfectly for every song, however there seemed to be an issue with the acoustics as there appeared to be an echo-y sound from time to time; though I think that is due to the new theatre and the difference playing to a full “theatre” makes in a small room.

Choreography by Mr Luke Skeel and Miss Laura Millar was creative and fast paced; using all the stage space available – exactly what the show needed.  The ensemble were either well drilled or having a great time as they were smiles all round – well done.

Lighting provided by CLX Lighting, Christian Gibbard was perfectly cued and appropriate for the show.

 Don Lockwood (Alistair Porteous) was charming as the leading man struggling with his new feelings for Kathy Selden, Alistair has a strong confident singing voice.

Lina, played by incredibly well by Lara, the perfect foil to Don, is not an easy part to play; however Lara captured both the condescending nature and the squeaky voice.  I hope I get to see her again as to sing truly badly usually can only be done by someone who can sing well to start with.  Well done Lara as I say not an easy part to play as often the laughs are for all the wrong reasons. 

R.F. Simpson was the imposing studio head brought to life by Javai – encompassing the apprehension of change all-the-while embracing the change of the modern cinema era.

Kathy Seldon (Ellie Johnson) was just sublime – she captured the demure, ambitious charming character of Kathy ensuring the audience were rooting for her to get the part and win the heart of Don.  I would like to particularly mention it was a pleasure to listen to you sing. You hit every note and your control was exceptional.

Cosmo Brown was my stand out character performance by Santi – his facial expressions and comic timing meant he just oozed stage presence and that is no easy feat.  This was no surprise however as Cosmo stole the show for both Richard and I as Zazu in the Lion King 2 years ago – a perfect example of the crystal ball I mentioned at the start of the review.

Dora Bailey (Stacy Bains) as the news reported provided the clipped and well pronounced accent so associated with that specific time

All ably supported by Roz (Lia Borromeo) Dexter (Izzy Casling) Zelda (Esme Hil) and the Broadway star (Louise Bezer).

The ensemble, dancers and other minor roles performed by Emma Ashley, Rosalind Forster, Freya Elphee, Erin Trotter, Keira Alleyne, Abi Hollands, Jenny Currie, Junior Ayowanie, Elenora Speziali, Brihanna Odhiambo, Lucy Bichener, Bisola Ayowanie, Christina Nakayama- Dodd, Catherine Patterson, Carmen Cooper and Mari Porteous.

The show flowed exceptionally well; the pace was fantastic and kept driving the show on, helped in no small way by the backstage team Secondary pupils Ellie Shakespeare, Gemma James, Millie Sussams and Fleur Shah who were quick and efficient with the scene changes.

I feel I also ought to mention the miming scene which was perfectly cued and as good as I would expect to see on any real silver screen!

I thoroughly enjoyed this show from being greeted by Year 9 pupils in the foyer to saying goodbye to Federation Principal Mrs Wilkes at the end.  I came to be entertained – and entertained I was – well done!

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