Singin’ In The Rain
Screenplay by Betty Comden & Adolph Green
Songs by Nacio Herb Brown & Arthur Freed
Directed by William Brown
Choreographed by Tammy Mader
Music Direction by Ryan T. Nelson
At Marriott Theatre. Lincolnshire
Fun production of musical film generally entertains
I must confess that through the years I have witnessed several terrific productions of Singin’ In The Rain featuring major local talents such as Curt Dale Clark, Matthew Crowle, Richard Strimer and Tony Yazbeck among others. The present Marriott Theatre production features three out-of-town imposts: Danny Gardener as Don Lockwood, Mary Michael Patterson as Kathy Seldon and Richard Riaz Yoder as Cosmo Brown. Gardner lacks the good looks and charisma necessary to be a Hollywood film star. The romantic sparks never clicked between Gardner and Patterson. The stage chemistry for the two buddies (Lockwood and Brown) did work as the two tap-danced into our hearts. The show suffers from staging challenges inherit on the in-the-round stage. But ultimately director William Brown’s production entertains, especially for those who are experiencing Sing’ In The Rain on stage for the first time. Those who enjoy the 1952 film will also find much to like here.
It is in the late 1920’s during the historic moment when talking pictures replaced silent films. Glamorous movie star Lena Lamont (the fabulous Alexandra Palkovic) who has a shrill voice and no singing ability is slated to star in a major film opposite leading man Lockwood. Previews show that the result will be disastrous. Enter highly talented but unknown Kathy Seldon (Mary Michael Patterson in the role originated by Debbie Reynolds), to save the movie by providing her glorious voice in dubbing Lamont’s lines.
Lockwood and Selden provide the love interest, and, yes, the plot line is predictable – so what! . This show features well-know songs, the spectacular tap dancing, and a talented cast. Memorable numbers include “All I Do is Dream of You,” “Good Morning,” “Broadway Melody,” “You Stepped Out of a Dream”” and “You Are My Lucky Star” and the energetic “Gotta Dance.” The signature tune ‘Singin’ in the Rain” complete with rain charms audiences once more!
Sing’ In The Rain is a musical fable filled with rich humor, exaggerated film satire, and, of course, explosive tap numbers that bring goose-bums to tap lovers (like me). This classic film musical works nicely on stage. Young audiences will see a Golden Age musical comedies in its pure form. Who doesn’t love a tap show?
Recommended
Tom Williams
Date Reviewed: November 2, 2016
For more info checkout the Singin’ in the Rain page at theatreinchicago.com
At Marriott Theatre, RT. 22 & RT 45, Lincolnshire, IL, call847-634-0200, www.marriotttheatre.com, tickets $50 – $55, Wed. at 1 & 8 pm, Thurs. & Fri. at 8 pm, Sat. at 4:30 & 8 pm, Sundays at1 & 5 pm, running time is 2hours, 30 minutes with intermission, through December 31, 2016.