GALLERY: It’s raining, it’s raining

It was raining songs and dances at The Teatro at Montecasino on 15 January, the opening night of Singin’ in the Rain. One of Hollywood’s greatest musicals, the 1952 Gene Kelly movie has been adapted for the stage and with a cast of talented South African artists, promises to be a show not to miss. The show opened in the West End’s Palace Theatre and has enjoyed a successful world run, before coming to The Teatro.

It focusses on Don Lockwood, the lead character, his side-kick, Cosmo Brown, aspiring actress Kathy Seldon and the lovely leading lady, Lina Lamont. Lina’s less than perfect vocal tones, akin to nails running down a chalkboard, is not star quality and so Kathy is hired to dub the imperfect tones to save a major movie production.

The highlight of the show is definitely the rain scene. Audiences are treated to a shower coupled with dazzling choreography and an endearing storyline. The rain, which is 12 000 litres of water (recycled for every show), provides the perfect thrill to the iconic song, Singin’ in the Rain.

When questioned about the challenging choreography during the rain scene, Grant Almirall playing the role of Don Lockwood, offered, “It’s slippery and you have to be careful not fall down, but it’s fun.”

“Watching real rain on stage, is a treat for the audience. It’s amazing to see them reel with delight, especially because they don’t know when it’s going to happen,” said Steven van Wyk, who is convincing in his role of Cosmo Brown.

Other cast members include beautiful songstress Bethany Dickson as Kathy Seldon; Taryn-Lee Hudson who puts on an endearing performance as Lina Lamont (one loves to hate her); James Borthwick as RF Simpson and Mark Simpson as Roscoe Dexter.

Singin’in the Rain is at The Teatro in Montecasino until 13 March.

Details: Computicket, 011 340 8000 or www.computicket.com