Ironic perhaps since it has been such a damp summer that Jonathan Church’s stage production of the classic, Golden Age movie musical Singin’ in the Rain has splashed onto the stage at Sadler’s Wells. Despite the less than desirable weather, Singin’ in the Rain has always had a decidedly heart-warming effect and this production is certainly no different, writes Rosie O’Connell.
For those that are not familiar, Singin’ in the Rain is set during Hollywood’s transition from silent movies to ‘talkies’, a challenge that leading man Don Lockwood is readily up for while his co-star and on-screen squeeze Lina Lamont’s Brooklyn-afflicted accent and singing voice doesn’t exactly fit the studio’s vision. After a chance encounter with budding actress Kathy Selden leads to romance and an acting existential crisis for Don, the plot to dub Lina’s less than desirable vocals ensues with the assistance of Don’s best friend and sidekick Cosmo Brown.
Returning to the lead role of Don Lockwood, Adam Cooper oozes charm and charisma as he dances his way effortlessly through Andrew Wright’s choreography. Charlotte Gooch is elegant and poised as Kathy, although it is not necessarily a good thing as the clumsy, naivety of the character is lost. However, she delivers some impressive vocals and dance numbers with an endearing chemistry between herself and Cooper, while ex-Strictly dancer Kevin Clifton takes on Cosmo, whose comedic timing and self-deprecation was an unexpected delight. Faye Tozer (from Steps) was fantastic throughout – a wonderful mix of funny, glamorous, and more delusional than vindictive, making an unlikeable character likeable with her hilariously off-key second act solo “What’s Wrong With Me” solidifying an already strong performance.
As for the big numbers, Clifton’s hectic clowning in “Make ‘Em Laugh” is terrific fun while the tap trio “Good Mornin” is a definite highlight. Famously danced by Gene Kelly around a lamppost in a downpour of rain, the titular number stays pretty true to the movie, complete with rain machine as a wet through Cooper joyously splashes around the stage with blissful grace, leaving the front rows drenched. It truly is a wonderful moment.
All in all, this production of Singin’ in the Rain is really good clean fun with its smattering of fabulous songs and dance routines that this cast performs with great exuberance. While it may not be ground-breaking stuff, as far as a stage reproduction of a beloved classic movie goes it certainly delivers, brightening even the wettest of summer evenings and leaving the audience with a warm glow and a smile.
Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Rosebery Ave, Clerkenwell, EC1R 4TN until 5th September. Times: Tuesday – Sunday at 7.30pm; Matinees: Wednesday & Saturday at 2:30pm. Admission: £15 – £100. Box Office: 020 7863 8000 – www.sadlerswells.com
Photos: Manuel Harlan
