Singin’ In The Rain Triumphs Despite Setbacks
By Melody Udell in Arts & Entertainment on Dec 3, 2012 4:20PM
Tony Yazbeck charms as the silent movie star Don Lockwood in "Singin' in the Rain."
Drury Lane Oakbrook's production of Singin’ in the Rain had a tough couple of weeks. During previews, lead actor Sean Palmer — of Sex and the City and Broadway fame — suffered a knee injuring resulting in surgery. So it’s a testament to Drury Lane that the team was able to find a more than suitable replacement in another Broadway vet, Tony Yazbeck. Despite a very short prep time, Yazbeck stepped into the role as if he’d been the lead all along. Whether or not you feel the glow of nostalgia as Yazbeck sings the title tune, cast and crew came together despite the setback to mount an impressive, heartfelt production.
It’s the golden age of silent film, and movie stars Don Lockwood (Yazbeck) and Lina Lamont (the scene-stealing Melissa van der Schyff) are Hollywood royalty, despite the fact that they’re only dating for publicity’s sake. Yazbeck imbues Don with a hint of vulnerability behind his dashing celebrity smile — he’s unsure of himself, despite his wildly successful movies and legions of female fans. On screen, the beautiful Lina is the charmingly tragic heroine, but off-screen, she’s a demanding diva whose career is in jeopardy thanks to the rise of talking movies. Her own voice is screechy and obnoxious, but she’s too full of herself to realize it.
After Lockwood meets the sweet Kathy Seldon (Jenny Guse) who can sing like a lark, Lockwood and his pal Cosmo (Matthew Crowle) hatch a plan to dub Kathy’s voice in for Lina’s in their next movie. Some of the best scenes happen when Crowle is on stage, including the hilarious “Make ‘Em Laugh” and fast-paced “Moses Supposes.” It’s fitting that Crowle shares choreography credit alongside Amber Mak — his impressive dance skills and wiry frame make him the perfect vehicle for slapstick.
The seamless set design (by Kevin Depinet) elevates each production, especially during the downpour that occurs during the title song. It was a smart and charming move by the theater to provide ponchos to first-row audience members, who were all too thrilled to be splashed by Yazbeck’s exuberant dancing.
Director Bill Jenkins has created a sentimental show with top-notch performers, and Drury Lane can add yet another Broadway-caliber production to its belt. Whether you grew up humming the tune or know nothing of the famous Gene Kelly movie musical, Singin’ in the Rain proves that a show can have more to it than pure nostalgia.