Chongqing - The stage of the Chongqing Shiguangnan Grand Theatre is set to be drenched in classic Hollywood charm as the original London West End production of Singin' in the Rain arrives in the city for a limited six-performance run, December 25-28.
The cast meet-and-greet of Singin' in the Rain was held on December 23rd. (Photo/The Organizer)
The acclaimed musical, direct from the UK, promises to deliver an authentic and joyous theatrical experience, complete with its legendary onstage rain effect. To build anticipation, a special cast meet-and-greet was held on December 23rd, featuring stars Grant Almirall, Charlotte Gooch, Matthew Maddison, and Holly James, alongside resident director Michelle Bishop and music director Jessica Viner.
From left to right: Jessica Viner, Grant Almirall, and Charlotte Gooch. (Photo/The Organizer)
From left to right: Matthew Maddison, Holly James, and Michelle Bishop. (Photo/The Organizer)
Based on the beloved 1952 MGM film, Singin' in the Rain is a romantic comedy set during Hollywood's turbulent transition from silent films to "talkies" in the late 1920s. It follows the story of movie star Don Lockwood and aspiring performer Kathy Selden. Since its 2012 West End premiere, this stage adaptation has garnered four Laurence Olivier Awards nominations, praised for its faithful yet inventive staging of iconic cinematic moments.
The cast meet-and-greet of Singin' in the Rain was held on December 23rd. (Photo/The Organizer)
A hallmark of this production is its spectacular use of over 6,000 liters of temperature-controlled water to create a real rain curtain during the signature number. Audience members in the front rows are famously advised that they might "share the shower," adding a unique immersive element to the performance.
Audiences. (Photo/The Organizer)
"This show is about pure, infectious joy," said a company spokesperson. "It's a timeless story of love and laughter set to some of the most famous songs in musical theatre history."
Cast members led dance tutorials, guiding volunteers through classic tap steps. (Photo/The Organizer)
The recent preview event offered fans a taste of that energy. Cast members led dance tutorials, guiding volunteers through classic tap steps, and performed a medley of hits like "Good Morning" and the iconic title song. Later, in a striking fusion of art and cityscape, the principals performed a brief routine atop the WFC's observation deck, with Chongqing's signature foggy skyline as their backdrop.
The principals enjoyed Chongqing's signature nightview at the WFC's observation deck. (Photo/The Organizer)
Staged by the original Chichester Festival Theatre creative team, the production features all the classic songs, dazzling tap dance sequences, and high-spirited comedy that have made it a global favourite. It offers the perfect year-end outing for families, couples, and theatre lovers of all ages seeking a heartwarming and spectacular night out. Tickets are now available for what promises to be a truly "singin'" and "dancin'" celebration in the heart of Chongqing.