Get ready to be absolutely transported back into the roaring twenties of Hollywood’s star-studded movie stars for the story of Don Lockwood and Cosmo Brown.
The Theatre Department has truly outdone themselves with this musical. This writer was lucky enough to sit in on their dress rehearsal run as they polished up the final details for opening night. This show truly has it all, from tap dance numbers, to wholesome fan-favorite songs, to Grace Allison’s Lina Lamont voice that we love to hate.
John Terista (Don Lockwood), Taylor Wichterman (Kathy Selden), and Kylensky Miracle (Cosmo Brown) are the perfect trio to play these iconic characters. All three, especially Terista and Miracle, complement each other so well. It’s hard not to smile through their songs “Fit as a Fiddle” and “Moses Supposes” when those two are dancing around one another.
When the three of them come together for the song “Good Morning” in their yellow raincoats it’s hard not to have flashes of the original movie playing throughout your mind. It’s breathtakingly nostalgic.
They also performed and sang incredibly individually. Wichterman’s voice is effortlessly beautiful. Her songs, “Would You?” and “You Are My Lucky Star” will leave you speechless. Her control and stage presence are magnetic. As are Miracle and Terista in their own solo numbers. Miracle’s, “Make ‘Em Laugh” was full of that Donald O’Connor slapstick comedy that always gets a chuckle out of most people. It’s ridiculous spectacle humor is what makes it fun loving and laughable. Terista, naturally embodies Gene Kelly, it’s something you have to see to believe. His songs, “You Were Meant For Me,” “You Stepped Out of a Dream,” and of course, “Singin’ in the Rain” were so well done. All three leads are true triple threats, lookout Monmouth, they are certainly not done.
As I mentioned before, Allison’s portrayal of Lina Lamont is absolutely hysterical. Not only is her voice a spot on depiction of Jean Hagen who originated the character in the 1952 classic, but she brings a new side of Lamont to the table. Even though she’s technically the “villain” you can’t help but want Lamont on the stage at all times, especially after her Act two number, “What’s Wrong With Me?” You’ll love her, even if she can’t pronounce the word “can’t” to save her life.
The dance ability of this cast is remarkable, especially since most had little tap experience. All of the ensemble members and minor role characters like Sami Khatri, Lyndsey Buren, Alli Spinelli, Kira Fisher, Chloe Garcia, Caroline Bader, Emily Stein, Ky Gray, Sid Phillips, and Frank Dige made the show worthwhile. There’s nothing I appreciate more than a strong ensemble run production.
Even one’s with bigger roles like Andrew Shuberda who sang his big number “Beautiful Girl” left a lasting impression. I also enjoyed watching the dynamic of Hollywood lot bigshots, RF Simpson played by Domenic Giampetro and Roscoe Dexter played by Kiefer Walsh. It was all of the little small acting details that made this story come to life.
It’s also important to note all of the work that went into the direction and concept of the show, the technical aspects, costume design, and lightning. This show certainly could not have been easy for this crew, yet they handled it with grace. Even though there was no actual water effect for the iconic song “Singin’ in the Rain,” the stage was filled with blues and cool colors to give that stormy feel. Another effect to mention is the projector screen that is used to showcase the movie premieres of Lockwood and Lamont. A genius choice in my opinion.
“Singin’ in the Rain” has plenty of show dates to choose from. You’re not gonna want to miss out on this wholesome tale filled with good fun. And if you’ve seen the 1952 film, this show is sure to put a smile on your face.
All performances will be held at Woods Theatre and opening night is this Thursday, Mar. 6, at 8 PM. Don’t worry if you miss the first performance there are more shows on Friday, Mar. 7, at 8 PM, Saturday, Mar. 8, at 2 PM and 8 PM. Sadly, the show will close out the run with a matinee on Sunday, Mar. 9, at 3 PM. So don’t miss out on this talented group of students.
As Don Lockwood sings, “Come on with the rain, I’ve a smile on my face,” that’s how you’ll leave Woods Theatre.
