Singin' in the Rain

Adapted from the timeless 1952 Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer film, ‘Singin in the Rain’ is an incredibly well-known, and much-loved, show containing the most iconic musical scene of all time.  Set in Hollywood during 1927, and at the birth of the ‘talkies’, this is the story of Don Lockwood and his silent-screen partnership with Lina Lamont. In their first attempt at making the transition, to a talking movie, the problem became immediately obvious – Lina’s ghastly voice! Cosmo Brown and Kathy Selden, together with studio management think they’ve devised a plan but…

Marie-Claire Lindsay must be congratulated for taking on the challenge as Director and in bringing this classic film to the stage.  Changing the shorter film-format sequences into a longer stage production requires careful thought and extensive planning.  Marie-Claire certainly met this challenge with aplomb. The principal line-up was excellent, the entire cast energetic and well-rehearsed, all scene changes and prop movements were slick and the lighting was highly effective.  Overall the show was hugely enjoyable and certainly one to look back on with many fond memories.   

The four cornerstone roles to this production were outstanding and I cannot stress just how impressed I was with these talented individuals.  With so much quality singing and dancing throughout the show they should be commended for the time, effort and commitment shown.  

Don and Cosmo rendition of ‘Fit as a Fiddle’ was superb with the quality of tap dancing being outstanding and precise.  ‘Good Morning’ by Don, Kathy and Cosmo was fabulous with special mention going to the settee!  ‘Moses Supposes’ was slick in the extreme with crisp and polished tap dancing from Don, Cosmo and Rod/Diction Coach. ‘Make them Laugh’ was another terrific song and dance routine from Don and Cosmo.  A vibrant ‘Broadway Melody’, backed by the ensemble, was hugely enjoyable.

It was, however, ‘Singin' in the Rain’, and that most iconic of all showbiz scenes, that was the standout number.  As the rain poured down on stage Don, surrounded by dancers in yellow ponchos and with umbrellas, sang and danced bringing pure joy to the audience.  Together with the rest of the audience I was extremely pleased to see the number repeated not once but also during the curtain call. 

The ensemble’s strength must not to be overlooked and Edge Hill Players is fortunate indeed to have such a depth of talent to draw upon.  Ensemble singing was of a high order with good entries and well balanced voices. Movement and characterisation could not be faulted and those onstage genuinely looked as if they were thoroughly enjoying themselves.  As a whole, the ensemble was a sheer joy to watch perform and provided excellent support to the principals. 

Special mention must be given, however, to the featured dancers who were stunning and added so much depth and colour.  This show demands glamour and the audience certainly wasn’t disappointed.  Each dance number was precise and polished.  ‘Singin in the Rain’ was simply exceptional. Well done!

I’m not sure who was responsible for the cinematography, but special mention must be given to the superb on-location clips that were of an exceptionally high standard.  The amount of time and effort invested to produce such a high standard of work is commendable. It genuinely had that dated 1920’s ‘feel’ to it and the badly dubbed film clip was terrific.

       

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