Singin in the Rain Splashes Into Victoria

Online, March 12, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Make a splash with Kaleidoscope's 16th annual fundraising gala and a brand new production of Singin' in the Rain directed by Pat Rundell.

It's the roaring '20s and silent movie stars are the biggest names in the world. Don Lockwood has it all, a string of hit films and a studio-engineered romance with the most beautiful actress in town. But with the new phenomenon of the talking picture on the way and a chance meeting with a talented young chorus girl set to steal his heart, things are about to change for Don and for Hollywood forever.

With all the charm, romance, comedy, and tinsel town glamour of one of the world's best-loved films, Kaleidoscope's brand new production from director Pat Rundell features a glorious score including the classics Good Morning, Make 'em Laugh, Moses Supposes and the legendary Singin' in the Rain. Griffin Lea, Joseph Goble, and Tara Britt are a joyous trio, dazzling in the roles made famous by Gene Kelly, Donald O'Connor and Debbie Reynolds. They lead a multi-talented cast which also features Noelle Antonsen as the hilarious blonde bombshell Lina Lamont, Barry Bowman as the highly-strung studio boss trying to win Hollywood's biggest prize, the first hit 'talkie', Michael Forbes as the frazzled film director Roscoe Dexter, and Leanne Allen as Olga Mara.

With stylish, soaring choreography from Jana Morrison, and music direction by Yanik Giroux, Singin' in the Rain will shower you with everything you could ever want on the McPherson stage. Hailed by the critics as the ultimate feel-good show, Singin' in the Rain is packed full of 'infectious brolly-twirling glee' (London Evening Standard)

The company hopes to raise a much needed $50,000. All funds raised will support Kaleidoscope Theatre's programming, helping to create original, innovative, relevant theatre experiences that stimulate and inspire young people and their communities.

Singin in the Rain is generously supported by production sponsor Doug Lee and Associates and Kaleidoscope Season Sponsor Thrifty Foods. Kaleidoscope acknowledges the support of: Season Sponsor Thrifty Foods, The CRD Arts Development Committee, BC Gaming Policy and Enforcement, BC Arts Council; The Vancouver Foundation, Angel Accessibility Solutions, Robert W. Cameron Law Corporation, Times Colonist, Island Parent Magazine, CTV Vancouver Island, and Metropol Industries. For Singin' in the Rain Kaleidoscope also acknowledges the support of Pacific Opera Victoria, Parkland Theatre, The Victoria Operatic Society, Langham Court Theatre, Suddenly Media, and Urban Arts.

Tickets for Singin' in the Rain can be purchased through the Royal McPherson Box Office #3 Centennial Square 250.386.6121 for $60 (includes all applicable taxes and service charges). All proceeds go to supporting Kaleidoscope Theatre. Singin' in the Rain runs Friday April 12 through Sunday April 14 with only three performances, including a matinee on the Sunday.

For over thirty-eight years Victoria's Kaleidoscope Theatre has been the driving force behind Vancouver Island's most beloved theatre experiences for young people and their families, reaching an audience of over 8,000 young people each year. For young artists, Kaleidoscope is a launching pad - providing professional support, training, and experiences to develop their vision and craft through various workshops, productions, and Performing Arts Studio classes.

"The best theatre in Canada is happening in young people's theatre. It's the most original, most inventive, the freshest work being done. It communicates directly to all audiences and it's time Victoria public has a chance to see this work". - Elizabeth Gorrie; Kaleidoscope Founding Artistic Director