Singin’ in the Rain is something we Mancunians do on a daily basis in our fair city but when the cast of the smash hit musical comedy took to the stage this week it showed the rest of us up as rank amateurs.
The stage version of this 1952 MGM classic starring Hollywood legends Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds enjoyed critical acclaim and sold out audiences during its residency in London’s West End, and is now embarking on a UK tour.
The plot follows the tale of Don Lockwood, a silent movie star, who is making the transition to talkies and the inevitable love story that happens along the way.
Horwich’s James Leece cuts a dashing figure as Don Lockwood and provides the all-singing, all-dancing package as does girlfriend Kathy Seleden played by Amy Ellen Richardson.
However stealing the show, and earning themselves loud cheers during the standing ovations, were Steps’ Faye Tozer and Stephane Anelli.
Faye proved she isn’t just a one-trick pop pony playing the comical role of Don’s uniquely-voice leading lady Lina Lamont perfectly.
Also providing big laughs on the night was Stephane Anelli who played Don’s partner in crime Cosmo Brown.
Lesser performers may have crumbled at the prospect of taking on the infamous role played by Donald O’Connor but Stephane played it with great aplomb.
Not only did he play the comedy element perfectly he delivered superb dance numbers and belted out tunes with ease.
Dynasty and Grease 2 star Maxwell Caulfield also performed the part of studio boss R.F. Simpson brilliantly, with just a hint of casting couch sleaze.
Hit after hit including the titular Singin’ In The Rain, Gotta Dance and Good Mornin’ had everyone singing and clapping along.
The show was a veritable feast for the senses and huge credit should go to the often-overlooked ensemble cast who were absolutely superb under the watchful eye of visionary director Jonathan Church.
This is five star, feel-good musical entertainment – if they could bottle and sell that post-show feeling they’d be ‘raining’ in the cash.
Singin’ in the Rain will be at Manchester Opera House until November 30.
Book your tickets here.
Picture courtesy of Manuel Harlan, with thanks.
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