Musical awash with talent

When Singin' In The Rain first opened in theatres more than two decades ago, critics claimed it would never stand the test of time.

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Singin' In The Rain Singin' In the Rain

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

Review by Alison Norton

When Singin' In The Rain first opened in theatres more than two decades ago, critics claimed it would never stand the test of time.

But 26 years later the show about the transition from silent movies to the 'talkies' is still proving a hit with audiences and last night made a splash at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre.

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In this latest tour of the popular show staged by UK Productions, West End favourite Tim Flavin gave a seasoned performance as Hollywood film star Don Lockwood in the role made famous by Gene Kelly.

He stared alongside Jessica Punch as would-be actress Kathy Selden who delighted the audience with wonderful vocals and a strong dance technique. Her version of Lucky Star was pure romance. Graeme Henderson as Cosmo Brown provided the fun in the show with a superb rendition of Make 'em Laugh incorporating acrobatics, props and visual comedy galore.

Amy Griffiths was suitably irritating as Lina Lamont, although some of her comedic lines were lost due to their fast delivery. However, her second act solo spot was one of the highlights of the show.

With an excellent company of all round performers and of course real rain, this feel-good show is a must for sentimental musical theatre lovers. It runs until Saturday.