What a glorious a feelin'... (Derby Dinner Playhouse)

Singin’ in the Rain Based on the Metro Goldwyn Mayer Film Screenplay by Betty Comden and Adolph Green Songs by Nacio Herb and Arthur Freed Directed by Tina Jo Wallace A review by Kate Barry

Entire contents are copyright © 2025 Kate Barry. All rights reserved.

They sure don’t make ‘em like they used to. Remember a time when movies were not steeped in CGI or social media gimmicks? Better yet, remember when going to the movies was an event in itself? Singin’ in the Rain is arguably one of the greatest movie musicals ever made. Derby Dinner Playhouse has wisely chosen this charismatic dance-heavy show about the change from silent movies to talkies as their 50th anniversary season comes to a close. Celebrating even more change at Derby Dinner Playhouse, this production marks the first for Tina Jo Wallace as Artistic Director of the theater.

You might be familiar with Singin’ in the Rain from the dazzling film starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds or any number of cultural references since 1952. It takes on a darker meaning in A Clockwork Orange, and has served as a point of reference for LaLa Land and the likes of Justin Timberlake to name a few. The musical numbers are the most important factor in this show and choreographer Megan Bliss has crafted wildly entertaining tap routines and showstoppers.

“Fit as a Fiddle” introduces us to our leading man, Don, charmingly played by Tyler Bliss and funny pal, Cosmo played by Mitchell Lewis. The vaudevillian playfulness with cheeky prop comedy and nods to the extreme height difference between Bliss and Lewis sets a footloose and fancy free tone for the rest of the show. Lewis brings extra amounts of clowning around to “Make em laugh,” complete with juggling, physical humor and prat falls. Lewis and Bliss are simply magnetic in “Moses,” with tap dancing so energetic that as an audience member you are left breathless by the resounding end of the song. Of course “Good Morning” matches Bliss and Lewis with Kaitlyn Sage’s ingénue, Cathy. As a trio, their voices, comic and dancing skills are beautifully matched and evenly timed. This musical number deserved all the applause it received right after the famous couch fall trick.

Tyler Bliss creates a relatable movie star who oozes confidence as Don. His take on the title song is full of light and optimism. Bliss executes effortless movement through the water effects with ease and is not afraid to make a splash or two. Audience members in the front row, be sure to bring a poncho! Bliss and Sage are a fine pair as Don chases Cathy through Hollywood and onto the big screen. “You are my lucky star” and “You were meant for me” carry the perfect amount of yearning for this silver screen romance.

While Cathy and Don are falling in love, worries flair as sound is introduced into film and silent movies quickly become a thing of the past. Gregory Rahming’s RF Simpson is the boisterous movie making executive pushing the idea for more talkies. Paired with artsy-fartsy silent film director Roscoe, played on Friday’s performance by Tony Milder, the studio has even bigger problems on their hands in the shape of Lina Lamont, played with all the glitz and ego of Hollywood royalty by Jillian Prefach Baker. Lamont’s storyline could be seen as problematic in current day: a female actress only used for her looks is forced to literally be silent while a more acceptable sounding actress serves her voice. It’s best not to think too deeply about Lina’s storyline, especially in today’s political climate. Fortunately here, Baker brings a performance of an actress who will not be silent and fights back for the recognition she deserves. Baker serves some great comedic chops with Lina’s distinct and unusual voice, especially during the “I can’t stand him” bit.

Singin’ in the Rain at Derby Dinner Playhouse keeps it light and never takes itself too seriously. With a love story and top notch dance numbers, the show reminds you of a bygone Hollywood era. And this musical is indeed a love letter to that era.

Singin' in the Rain Derby Dinner Playhouse April 3-May 18 2025 525 Marriott DriveClarksville, IN 47129www.derbydinner.com