Singin' in the Rain Review: A Splash of Unabashed Joy
Raz Shaw's vibrant production of Singin' in the Rain begins with a simple coat and hat, a clever setup for the leading man, Don Lockwood (the charismatic Louis Gaunt), who performs a lively dance before donning his attire, transforming into his movie star persona. This opening immediately transports us to the world of Hollywood, a realm where appearances reign supreme.
This musical is a witty commentary on the disparity between reputation and reality. Don, a pre-Hollywood vaudeville performer, struggles to reconcile his public image with his true self, much to the amusement of aspiring actress Kathy Selden (the talented Carly Mercedes Dyer). In contrast, co-star Lina Lamont's on-screen glamour is a stark contrast to her high-pitched, squeaky voice, masterfully portrayed by Laura Baldwin. The introduction of talkies forces the studio to adapt, leading to amusing and familiar consequences.
The production expertly navigates the iconic moments, especially the tap-dancing scene during the downpour, which is a crowd-pleaser. Gaunt cleverly teases the audience, playfully threatening those in the front row with his umbrella. This approach adds a layer of engagement, inviting the audience to partake in the spectacle.
Shaw's production is a testament to the Royal Exchange's in-the-round space, as seen in his 2018 revival of The Producers. The audience becomes an integral part of the show, whether as adoring movie fans, high-fiving accomplices to Cosmo Brown's antics (a hilarious segment delivered by Danny Collins), or confidants to a frustrated Lina. With minimal set design, the production relies on the exceptional ensemble cast and Alistair David's dynamic choreography to drive the narrative.
The Royal Exchange's recent Christmas offerings have varied in style, from the quirky Spend Spend Spend to a biographical musical about Betty Boothroyd. This year, however, the focus is on sheer, unapologetic joy. As a respite from the constant stream of negative news, this production feels both timely and infectious. By the energetic finale, resistance becomes futile, leaving audiences captivated and eager for more.
