Making a splash Making a splash (January 09, 2004)

'Singin' in the Rain' hits Pleasanton stage
by Teresa C. Brown

It is the rainy season, but rain or shine it is a perfect time to see the Pleasanton Playhouse theatrical production of "Singin' in the Rain," opening Jan. 16 at Amador Theater.

In a switch from the usual film-following-the-play production, this snappy comedy was adapted from the 1952 MGM film of the same title that showcased Gene Kelly, Donald O'Conner and Debbie Reynolds. Holding its own, the stage production possesses the same delightful music of the film in an animated romantic comedy set in Hollywood during the 1920s.

The light-hearted humor springs from Hollywood's transition from silent films to "talkies." In the story, film moguls cast box office favorite couple Don Lockwood (played by Steve Perez) and Lina Lamont (Meghan McGovern) to star in the studio's latest venture: a talking film. However, one problem quickly surfaces: Lamont's voice. Silent films concealed its shrill, ear-piercing qualities, but in a "talkie" her voice would certainly doom not only the film, but also the stars' careers.

Dubbing is the solution, suggests Lockwood's friend Cosmo Kramer Brown (Steve Yates), with Lamont lip-synching to the speaking and singing talents of unknown actress Kathy Seldon (Jenni Daw). Guided by Playhouse director Margot Abbott and producer Kathleen Breedveld, the comedic twists tighten. Lockwood becomes smitten with Seldon, and jealousy burns brightly with Lamont, who believes her own public relations press that has long played up on the Lockwood-Lamont appeal by hinting at an off-screen romance between the pair.

While careening through the topsy-turvy situations, the musical keeps the laughter rolling with clever dialogue in a play adapted by Betty Comden and Adolph Green. With music by Nacio Herb Brown and lyrics by Arthur Freed, film and theater buffs alike have come to adore the show-stopping tunes of "Singin' in the Rain."

In addition to the title song, other melodies include "Moses Supposes," "Make 'Em Laugh" and "I've Got a Feelin' You're Foolin'."

The Playhouse's on-stage production of the film classic is one production where rain, dancing and singing come together with a splash for an evening of spirited, lively fun.
Oldtime favorite

What: "Singin' in the Rain" Who: Pleasanton Playhouse Where: Amador Theater, 1155 Santa Rita Road When: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday; Jan. 16-Feb. 1 Cost: $28 adults; $26 senior, ages 60 and older; $20 juniors, ages 18 and younger. Discounts available for groups of 20 or more. Tickets: Call 462-2121, or order online at www.pleasantonplayhouse.com

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