1920s Hollywood is the setting for this madcap, light-hearted and romantic comedy about the early days of sound film, when many a movie studio found itself scrambling to salvage the career of its silent picture star.

The May Day weekend theatrical performance at Bluffton University has been a tradition that goes back to 1915, with just a few exceptions.  May Day weekend, also graduation weekend, is a time when alumni return to campus to celebrate with the campus community. According to assistant professor of theatre and communication, Melissa Friesen, for many years a Shakespearean play was performed.  The custom of staging a musical was established in the 1970s. 

Friesen and musical director/conductor David Sawatzky wanted to do a larger cast show, after last year's Little Shop of Horrors (with a cast of ten), and they both found the script of Singin' in the Rain to be utterly charming.  Friesen goes on to say that the witty dialogue and colorful characters make the production one of her favorites. Auditions for the show began in January for the production.  The show also has the opportunity for many women in the cast of about 25, which works well. "Typical of many theatre programs, more women than men who want to participate."

Most of the Bluffton cast members have had little to no dance experience before this show, which will amaze the audience. At rehearsals, they appear to be consummate performers. 

Although some have been in show choirs or other musicals and about ten of them have had significant dance experience, only a few of have had tap before.  The directors saw this dance-heavy show as an opportunity for students to learn a new skill.  "Our choreographer, Jennifer Bates (of 6,7,8! Performing Arts Center in Findlay) commented to me that she enjoys working with Bluffton students - while they don't all have extensive dance training, they have a strong work ethic and keep at it until they get it."

For the leading role of Don Lockwood, the production needed a Gene Kelly-type, hard to find in a small musical theatre program.  But the school didn't have to look far~Dan Stanowick, Bluffton's Assistant Director of Marbeck Center, accepted the challenge.  Stanowick's musical theatre experience is notable; he's played Curley in Pandora's production of Oklahoma! two years ago as well as several roles for Bluffton theatre productions, "filling in at the last minute, even, when a student actor has not been able to continue in the role," according to Friesen.

Senior music major Anne Yoder is portraying Kathy Selden.  Anne has been in many musicals while at Bluffton, had a featured solo as Mama Noah in Children of Eden, and was one of the Skid Row trio members in last year's Little Shop of Horrors.  Friesen adds, "Just like Debbie Reynolds did for the film, Anne is learning to tap for this production and is doing an outstanding job."

Cosmo Brown is portrayed by Ryan Mooney, a sophomore music education major.  Brown fits the role perfectly, "He is born for this role, gifted with comic timing and a love for performing which inspires other cast members."

Sophomore Libby Julien will play Lina Lamont.  She transforms herself into any role she undertakes, capturing perfectly the combination of diva and ditz that is Lina Lamont.  Libby starred in last year's Little Shop of Horrors as Audrey as a first-year student. 

In addition to the 25 cast members, two young men from Bluffton have roles and there will also be several cameo appearances of students, staff, and other community members.

Technical director Mervin Schrock (of Findlay) wanted to emulate real rain, but Friesen worried that the risk of damage to the building would be too great.  Instead, they are using a combination of rear projection and lighting instruments with motorized rain wheel attachments to generate the lighting effects for the rain sequences.  "One of the biggest challenges for our production each year is transforming the gym, Founders Hall, into a theatre.  We will make use of projections and lighting effects to suggest the multiple scenes contained in the show."

The MGM classic has been faithfully and lovingly adapted by Broadway legends Betty Comden and Adolph Green from their original award-winning screenplay. Each unforgettable scene, song and dance, is accounted for, including the show-stopping title number.  Hilarious situations, snappy dialogue, and a hit-parade score of Hollywood standards make Singin' In The Rain the perfect entertainment for any fan of the golden age of movie musicals.

For more information on Bluffton's theatre and arts, visit their website at www.bluffton.edu/arts/the Tickets for the show are $10 for reserved seats and $5 for bleacher seating. Contact the box office at boxoffice@bluffton.edu or 419-358-3239

Bluffton's past productions include:
Little Shop of Horrors (May 2007)
Children of Eden - Musical (May 2006)
The Art of Dining - Play (November 2005)
She Loves Me - Musical (May 2005)
The Miracle Worker - (February 2005) 

Sources: Singingintherain.net