2-21-2026 8:31pm

MUSIC, ROMANCE AND REAL RAIN : SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN

Beth Callahan Editor

SPRINGBORO, OH -- If you love classic movies you should run- not walk- to La Comedia now for their latest production: SINGIN IN THE RAIN. Based totally on the famous film of the 1950s, all the songs and dances are there (including a new one for Lina Lamont) as well as the tale of the advent of talkies in the movies.

Portraying the Gene Kelly role of Don Lockwood is Ben Wambeke, who currently resides in New York and has made the role his own with his notable singing and dancing skills. His “partner-in- crime” Cosmo is the energetic and enthusiastic Parker Lowrie, who was previously at La Comedia in HOLIDAY INN. Not enough can be said about his comic persona and his wonderful tap dancing skills, which are hard to come by in many of today’s performers. Kathy Selden, the female ingenue, who in the movie was played by Debbie Reynolds, is played by Meredith Fox, who brings a different, softer take to the role, which is more complimentary than the character in the Reynolds version. The female protagonist Lina Lamont is played by Sara Morgan, who truly captures the high pitched voice and darker intents of the character while always looking beautiful.

When it comes to supporting cast, SINGIN IN THE RAIN shines with talent. Of local interest is Ed Iverson (RF Simpson, the Studio Head) a local Warren County theatre professional. Ed is well known in the area as an actor and theatre instructor. He has performed in numerous La Comedia productions over the years.

Included in the supporting cast are Karie-Lee Sutherland as Miss Dinsmore a caricature of Loella Parsons, bringing humor and fun to the role. Jonathan Pedergass as Roscoe Dexter, plays the distressed and overworked film director. He is always fine in every production. Alison Gabart as Zelda Zander (Chorus Girl) is a standout in the pep and vitality department. And, JD Smith plays the Production Singer who sings BEAUTIFUL GIRL surrounded by lovely glamour girls with a 1920’s verve.

Once again, La Comedia produces the entire Broadway musical with a variety of sets and media. (Yes, they do show silent film clips of the actors!)

Most amazing in the recreation of the SINGIN IN THE RAIN dance - REAL RAIN. That is a feat anywhere - much less in a dinner theatre setting.

Lots of applause for the set designers, technical folks and stage crews - some of whom have to DO some cleanup work. Once again, La Comedia hits a home run with another great professional musical. It is close to home and a really great show. You will enjoy it.

La Comedia is the only professional theatre in Warren County and the ONLY professional dinner theatre in Ohio.

SINGIN IN THE RAIN is on until March 19. Tickets start at $75.00 Subscriptions for 2 or more shows are available and so are group rates. Parking is close and always free.

For more information visit lacomedia.com