Singin' in the Rain (Tour – Sunderland)

One thing any actor knows is that every role involves competition, if that competition can sing, dance AND act; well they’re a triple threat! When the entire stage is full of such talent, as it is in this production of Singin' in the Rain at the Sunderland Empire, then the result is an evening of pure joy.

Singin’ in the Rain is one of my favourite films so I had been resistant to seeing this stage version… how stupid can one man be? This show is pure magic from start to finish. The story, set in the 1920s Hollywood during the birth of “talking pictures”, introduces us to the silent film stars of the day; great melodramatic actors with no need for a voice.

As technology moves on the studio realise their next release has to be a “talkie”, unfortunately their star actress, Lina Lamont (Faye Tozer) has a voice fit only for silent movies. The studio proceeds to explore every avenue to find a voice for their leading lady. Tozer embodies the role of the shrill, sharp and mainly talentless actress with superb comic timing, the song “What’s Wrong With Me” being a revelation.

There is so much to recommend about this production; the set is stunning, the orchestra is superb but above all else, the cast are just wonderful. A triple joy.

Singin’ in the Rain continues at the Sunderland Empire until 1 February.