A "Downpour of Talent": Why La Comedia’s Singin’ in the Rain is a Must-See Visual Masterpiece—Mike Woody reviews Singin’ in the Rain at La Comedia Dinner Theatre in Springboro, showing now thru March 27.
Why You Should "Grab an Umbrella" and Catch Singin’ in the Rain ☔🎶
BY: Michael Woody
"Singin’ in the Rain is a Must-See Visual Masterpiece"
The experience of attending live theatre is heightened greatly when you witness something never seen before. In all the years I’ve been attending La Comedia, I thought I had seen about everything that could possibly occur on the stage. However, until now I’d never seen it rain. Not just fancy lighting effects, but actual H2O falling from the sky. It’s a visual masterpiece, and just one of several reasons why Singin’ in the Rain is a must-see.
After regretfully missing ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ (credit to anyone who noticed), I was glad to be back. From dazzling tap dancing, classic songs, hearty laughs and the rainfall; Singin’ in the Rain was exactly the medicine I needed. The only side effect, it’s been two days and the title song is still stuck in my head.
A "Downpour of Talent"
The show starts at the premiere of the latest silent movie starring Don Lockwood, played by Ben Wambeke, and his leading lady, Sarah Morgan, as Lina Lamont. Though their on-screen chemistry translates into box office success, their real-life relationship is one-sided. Don does not feel the same for Lina, as she does for him. Even Bill Nye would agree that the on-stage chemistry between the pair is explosive.
More than just a drizzle, Wambeke displays a downpour of talent as Don. His vocals and dancing are both top-notch. He combines them in the aforementioned rain scene, which is spectacular. There’s enough precipitation on the ground that Wambeke is able to make a splash with his mesmerizing footwork. It’s a show-stopping number, which is fittingly right before intermission.
Morgan has the beauty for the silver screen, but gives her character a voice geared for silent movies. Her career and the entire upcoming film is put in jeopardy by the development of ‘talkies.’ Not even Lina’s pretty face can make up for her inability to speak into the microphone while filming, which Morgan plays hilariously.
With both the face and voice for movies, especially musicals, is Kathy Selden, played by Meredith Fox. Don becomes smitten by her, creating a love triangle with Lina.
As spectacular as the rain scene is, its excellence is matched by the physical comedy that Parker Lowrie as Cosmo pours into the song 'Make ‘Em Laugh.' I’ve always said that the annual Christmas show is like getting two shows for the price of one because of 'O Holy Night'—it’s the one moment I never want to miss. Lowrie’s performance here hits that same high bar. Rather than just laugh, it should be called Make ‘Em’ Your #1 Fan. Lowrie totally holds the audience in his hands and takes them on an unforgettable ride. Without reasonable doubt, Lowrie is guilty of stealing the show.
Lowrie is instantly likable, as soon as he first enters, and his appeal only continues to grow. He’s also a skilled dancer; together, he and Wambeke put on a clinic in tap dancing for a couple of numbers. Their feet expel more energy in two minutes than my entire body some days, umm weeks.
The talented cast also features the majestic Ed Iverson as R.F Simpson, the head of the movie company, and Jonathan Pendergrass as the director, Rosco Dexter. No matter the size of the role, Pendergrass always stands out. Every show Pendergrass is involved in is benefits just from his presence. As Rosco, he entertains as the beleaguered director at his wits’ end, trying to complete a scene with Lina. The charming Allison Gabert is delightful as Zelda, and Karie-Lee Sutherland brings her standard level of excellence to multiple parts. The rest of the ensemble is all stellar.
It’s a classic musical for a reason; the music is like a catalog of old favorites. In addition to those already mentioned are Good Morning and Moses. Another fun part of the production is the showing of actual black-and-white films featuring the cast.
The food is delicious, especially the Honey Dijon Chicken. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, which is funnel fries.
There are several reasons to see Singin’ in the Rain, so grab an umbrella, and experience it yourself.
☔ Show Information:
Singin’ in the Rain at La Comedia Dinner Theatre 🎶
