REVIEW: SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN

SALISBURY PLAYHOUSE

Co-produced with Bolton’s Octagon Theatre and Newcastle-under-Lyme’s New Vic Theatre, Salisbury Playhouse has yet again delivered a production of the very highest quality.

Based on the classic 1952 MGM film – memorably starring Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds – and consistently voted Hollywood’s greatest movie musical, this is the story of how silent films evolved into “the talkies”.

Set in 1927 Hollywood, the storytelling is compelling, the location atmospherically convincing, and the dancing is just breathtaking, ranging from ballet to tap, spiced with the distinctive rhythms of 1920s jazz.

Twelve fantastic performers act, dance, sing, and play a total of 34 different musical instruments. There’s no need for a pit orchestra; they are the live band!

Particularly outstanding are the mesmeric Matthew Croke as lead dancer/ singer Don Lockwood, Christian Edwards as comic foil Cosmo Brown, and Eleanor Brown as the love interest with the hidden singing talent.

The most interesting character is diva Lina Lamont, whose successful career in silent movies is about to be compromised by the coming of “the talkies”, as the new sound techniques reveal her screechy, tuneless singing voice. Sarah Vezmar nails the part, displaying Lamont’s endearing vulnerability.

Singin’ In The Rain runs until May 28, with matinees Thursdays and Saturdays.

If you book front-row seats, you’ll receive complimentary plastic ponchos to protect you from the rain!

Brendan McCusker