North High School to present 'Singin' in the Rain'
Downers Grove North High will present "Singin' in the Rain" at 7 p.m. Nov. 6 and 7 and 3 p.m. Nov. 8 in the school's Clarence Johnson Auditorium, 4436 Main St., Downers Grove.
The musical is a light-hearted look at the early days of film when the silent era was fading.
North High's production is one of the school's most challenging to date. It will feature a simulated rain shower for the title song. Noah Record, scenic designer and master carpenter for the show, said about 200 gallons of water will be pumped through 38 feet of piping suspended 18 feet above the stage. Record described the effect as a "curtain of rain."
The show also will feature videotaped segments portraying the characters' movies. These segments were taped and edited by the school's cable channel.
The show also presents challenges in acting, singing and dancing as it tries to re-create the brilliance of the original film. Sophomore Samantha Barry plays silent film actress Lina Lamont.
"It's fun to be an annoying character, using a voice you wouldn't normally use and getting the reactions you get," she said.
Senior Lisa Zeles, who plays aspiring actress Kathy Seldon, said her favorite song and dance number is "Good Morning" because of the choreography and energy in the number.
The main characters of the show struggle with numerous technical difficulties and a silent-era diva as their film studio tries to make the transition to sound. The show also features a humorous love story. Originally a film made in 1952 starring Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O'Connor, the musical features such well-known songs as "Good Morning," "Make 'Em Laugh" and "Singin' in the Rain."
The American Film Institute recently listed "Singin' in the Rain" as the fifth greatest American film and the greatest American film musical. The movie was turned into a stage play in 1985.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $7 for students.
