Singin’ In The Rain, Kilworth House Theatre
Written by Emmie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.
For nearly 20 years, South Leicestershire’s hidden gem has been delivering some of the best large-scale productions outside of the West End. This year Director and Choreographer Lee Proud takes on delivering Singin’ in the Rain, a joyous and timeless musical that captures the magic and challenges of Hollywood’s transition from silent films to talkies in the 1920s. The production hits the Kilworth House stage once again, the last time back in 2015.
Firstly introduced as a song, ‘Singin In The Rain’ was featured on Broadway by Doris Easton Travis in ‘The Hollywood Music Box Revue’ in 1929. The film musical of the same name is what formed its success, with the song inspiring Arthur Freed who thought it would make a great title track. The film, released in 1952, starred iconic movie stars Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds. Singin’ in the Rain made its world debut at the London Palladium in 1983 and it has toured and revived numerous times since.
This classy production fits perfectly into the space, with Simon Wells' set design immediately thrusting the audience into the glamorous and dynamic world of Hollywood, filled with iconic performances, memorable songs like ‘Make ‘Em Laugh’ ‘Moses Supposes’ and title song ‘Singin’ In The Rain’, and spectacular dance sequences (not forgetting the well-known showstopper ‘Singin’ In The Rain’ which gets a brilliant reaction from the audience) by Lee Proud ensuring audiences have a delightful evening in the idyllic setting.
Singin’ In The Rain tells the story of silent film star Don Lockwood (Jack Wilcox), who finds his career in jeopardy with the advent of talking pictures. To save his latest film, he teams up with his best friend, Cosmo Brown (Alastair Crosswell), and aspiring actress Kathy Selden (Lucie-Mae Summer) to convert it into a musical. Along the way, Don and Kathy fall in love, and they must navigate the comedic obstacles posed by Don's egotistical co-star, Lina Lamont (Jess Buckby), who struggles with her grating voice.
Jack Wilcox effortlessly channels the charm and talent reminiscent of Gene Kelly in the beloved musical film, infusing the character with his own distinctive style. Lucie-Mae Summer mesmerises with her breathtaking voice and captivating presence from the moment she steps onto the stage. However, my favourite performance of the evening came from Alastair Crosswell, whose natural humour and precise execution of choreography stood out distinctly.
Singin In The Rain reflects its historical context well and there’s interest to be had in its storyline, yet its cast's lack of diversity may hinder modern audience engagement and understanding. Hopefully, we will see this in the theatre’s next summer production.
The overall forecast for this revival will bring you entertainment rain or shine this summer, there’s a lot to be admired! (and I would recommend preparing yourself a pre-theatre picnic in the theatre grounds!)
At Kilworth House Theatre until 28 July 2024.
★ ★ ★ ★
