In selecting a musical to close out the 2023-2024 Tiger Theatre season, the performing arts team turned to the classics. There was one title that stood out above the rest for its vibrant characters, impossibly catchy score, hilarity, and heart: Singin’ in the Rain. It can be challenging to bring a beloved film to the stage- how do you capture the magic of Gene Kelly’s moves, the beauty of Debbie Reynolds’s voice, the acerbic and acrobatic physical comedy of Donald O’Connor, and build the world of old Hollywood?
Well, if you’re lucky like me, you work with the incredible actors and adults at Wheaton Warrenville South High School, where you have the opportunity to build something together; something that captures the spark the original Singin’ in the Rain film created, yet is a production that belongs wholly to the people who created it.
Joy, laughter, enthusiasm, hard work, and creativity have been steeped into every part of the production process. The actors approached rehearsals with a sense of intelligence and fearless curiosity. The stage crew worked tirelessly to build the set and crack the code of challenging practical effects. The stage managers and student director lead with warm authority and professionalism beyond their years. The pit orchestra rehearsed with dedication to bring the score to life with nuance, beauty, and art. My adult colleagues, each experts in their field, collaborated and took on duties beyond their roles to make the show a success. This process has been one of ease and glee, thanks to all the incredible people.
We hope you feel the same delight when watching the show that we did while creating it. We encourage you to tap your feet, to sway to the music, to be transported to the golden days of old, and to sing along when the time comes at the end of the show.
In the theatre, all are welcome. Thank you for being here.
Claire Drews, Director
Special Thanks to:
WWS Buildings and Grounds
WWS Custodial Team
Lorie Campos, Jim Brennan, and Cindy Budzikowski
Lisa Stemple
Matthew Stellwagen
Mr. Chuck Smith and the WWS Fencing Club
The WWS Football Team
Wheaton North High School Falcon Theatre
Maureen Kermend and Malinda Holmer
The WWS English Department
Broadway Costumes
Parents and families of the cast, crew, and pit orchestra
Justin Matkovich
Archie Drews
