DHT Takes Up Where Gene Kelly Left Off

Diamond Head Theatre concludes its 2011-2012 season with an ageless classic, where the title alone is enough to make you smile and break into song and dance.

Showing July 20 through Aug. 12 is Singin’ in the Rain. … “What a glorious feeling, I’m happy again …” Humming it recalls cobblestone streets glistening under the glow of an old-fashioned street lamp, while a couple sets their umbrellas a-twirl, just a-singin’ and dancin’ in the rain.

Based on the original 1952 film starring Gene Kelly and Debbie Reynolds, DHT’s upcoming musical will bring those visions alive again. To dust off the storyline, Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont are a popular romantic duo in silent films. Even off the stage, Lamont has feelings for Lockwood, but his feelings for her are anything but amorous. It’s chorus girl Kathy Selden who captures his attention. Lamont’s voice is a miserable squeak while Selden’s is lovely, and she gets her big theatrical break when talkies emerge as the new rage. The problem is, it’s only her voice that has a starring role, alongside Lamont’s image. Will Selden get her due? We all know the answer: Yes, she gets the man and a fair shake.

Adding special talent to the production are three New York guests: director Greg Zane, choreographer Jim Cooney, and in the role of Lockwood, Sean Quinn.

Singin’ in the Rain plays at 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 4 p.m. Sunday with 3 p.m. matinees July 28, and Aug. 4 and 11. Tickets cost $12-$42. The public is welcome to attend a free Talk Back Discussion after the Aug. 2 performance. For reservations and details, call 733-0274.