Lunchbox Theatrical Productions, David Atkins Enterprises, Michael Cassel Group & TEG DAINTY. Adelaide Festival Theatre. 3 Dec 2016
It would be a hard heart that is not moved by the outstanding production on offer at the Festival Centre this month. Singin' in the Rain feels like a celebration of everything musical theatre was meant to be. It is, quite simply, a triumph.
All of the signature moves are there; Don Lockwood swinging on the Lamp post as he rejoices for love; Don, Cosmo, and Katherine linked arm in arm, tipping over a bench seat; but there is so much that is new. This production breathes through its stunning choreography. The cast of amazing ensemble dancers and even more talented leads are its heartbeat.
In the lead role of Don Lockwood for the opening night of the Adelaide season, Rohan Browne is absolutely spectacular. In what can only be described as a mammoth undertaking for a stage performer he brings new meaning to the term ‘triple threat’ as he dances up a storm and croons though every number with delicious dulcet tones and gentle vibrato.
Playing opposite him, in one of the all-time best musical theatre roles, is Jack Chambers as Cosmo Brown. Chambers is a tour-de-force and together with Browne the pair are unstoppable. Chamber’s number Make ‘Em Laugh is a highlight of the production, as are Fit As A Fiddle and Good Mornin’.
As Lockwood’s love interest, Kathy Seldon, Gretel Scarlett rounds out the exceptionally talented cast of leads with enviable skill as dancer, singer, and actress. The chemistry between Scarlett and Browne is both electric and sensual. Browne’s Lockwood is full with charismatic charm and flirtatiousness which he beautifully fulfills and Sheldon’s shy, endearing nature is perfectly captured by Scarlett.
Erika Heynatz plays the famed Lina Lamont with a truly shocking – and brilliantly executed – shrieking voice! The cast of key characters is rounded out ably by Robyn Arthur, Mike Bishop, and Rodney Dobson
The design by Simon Higlett is beautiful in its simplicity and Tim Mitchell’s lighting fills the action with warmth, heart, and life.
Everything about this production is just right, but nothing is more spectacular than Andrew Wright’s choreography which the amply talented cast execute with aplomb.
One can barely wipe the smile from one’s face reminiscing on this production of Singin' In The Rain.
A show to be seen twice or more.
Paul Rodda
When: 1 to 23 Dec
Where: Festival Theatre
Bookings: bass.net.au
