One of the most iconic movie musicals ever made has been adapted into a lively theatre effort; however that's not the only reason to head to the new staging of Singin' in the Rain. Do it for Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. Their new Oscar-tipped film, La La Land, both pays tribute to and follows in the footsteps of the Gene Kelly-starring 1952 flick. Yes, that's a very, very good thing.
For those who've somehow missed the '20s-set big screen classic during their lifetime, Singin' in the Rain charts a story of romance and stardom, as silent film star Don Lockwood tries to adjust to the age of talking pictures, and aspiring actress Kathy Selden tries to make her big break. It was actually crafted around a heap of existing songs, such the titular track, 'Make 'Em Laugh' and 'Good Morning'.
All of that sings and dances its way onto the Lyric Theatre's stage, complete with the talented Grant Almirall, Rohan Browne, Gretel Scarlett and Jack Chambers among the cast — and 12,000 litres of water causing a splash. Actually, there's even a wet weather warning for anyone sitting in the front three rows, as well as a free poncho.
Image: Jeff Busby.