BWW Reviews: SINGIN' IN THE RAIN - Underwhelming Adaptation of Classic Movie Musical

Orchestra Victoria, under the direction of maestro John Foreman sweep into the overture of the Production Company's production of Singin' In The Rain with such flamboyance and precision that anything that follows seems mundane and a little underwhelming. This is a combination of the show, the cast and the limited set, constricting the cast's ability to maximise their skill and talent.

Singin' In The Rain is the iconic movie musical that has never translated particularly successfully onto the stage. This production is no exception. The show takes a long time to get into stride and peaks towards the conclusion of Act I before stuttering to a lifeless conclusion. There is no wow moment or performance through the evening. The ensemble have sparing moments to shine, and they do. There is unfortunately, just not enough of them.

Performances vary throughout this staging of Singin' In The Rain. There are so many wonderfully iconic characters that are brought to life with various degrees of success. Matt Lee as CosMo Brown is particularly accomplished. A spectacular dancer, Lee's voice is notably delightful. This coupled with his strong characterization, leads to a memorable performance. Alinta Chidzy as Kathy Selden is poised, elegant and vocally polished leading her vocals to the harsh twang of screen starlet Lina Lamont played to comedic precision by Christie-Whelan Browne. Rohan Browne as Don Lockwood displays all the charisma that the character requires, dancing with an assured air of confidence. Browne's performance is slightly let down by his unassuming voice that neither impresses or offends.

Sound is an issue on opening night with many lines lost technically due to missed cues. This coupled with particularly quiet vocal and tap levels contribute to an overall sense of unpreparedness. This is a big show to do with the short rehearsal and production values associated with the Production Company. They are at the forefront of musical theatre in Melbourne and need to ensure that each show fits their mold and is at the lofty standards that they set for themselves with shows such as Gypsy, Chess and The Producers.

There are definitive moments in this production of Singin' In The Rain. Moments where both individual and collective brilliance are on display. These moments are unfortunately few and far between leaving us searching, but ultimately never truly discovering anything other than a sense of beige throughout the performance.

Singing In the Rain

The Production Company

Arts Centre Melbourne State Theatre

21-25 August