Prepare for April showers as NAPA brings Singin’ in the Rain to Hull Truck Theatre

After a difficult two years due to the temporary closures and restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Northern Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) is now resuming its annual big production. This year’s show will be Singin’ in the Rain, which promises to make a splash on Hull Truck Theatre’s main stage this month.

Image: Mark Kensett Photography

Based on the screenplay by Betty Comden and Adolph Green with songs by Nacio Herb and Arthur Freed, Singin’ in the Rain is set in 1920s Hollywood to a glorious MGM score. The story follows successful silent movie stars Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont at a time when the silver screen is finding its voice, to the dismay of Lina and her squeaky tones.

Katie Wright, Head of Performing Arts at NAPA and the show’s director, said: “We are so excited to be returning to Hull Truck, as our ‘big show’ is a legacy that is handed down from one generation of students to the next. Singin’ in the Rain is the perfect night out for any fan of the golden age of movie musicals and our students are ready to do this absolute classic proud.”

NAPA’s interpretation of the timeless show presents a huge variety of 1920s fashion, from flapper outfits and glitzy dance attire complete with sequins and feathers to magnificent ball gowns with powdered wigs. With a cast of 35 young performers aged between 13 and 19, many of which are training to enter the industry professionally, the show is all set to bring some razzle-dazzle to the Hull Truck Theatre stage.

Katie said: “Singin’ in the Rain is king of the musical film genre and the greatest Hollywood musical ever made. It became clear to our production team early in the process that we shouldn’t try to recreate the film, but instead tell the story using the resources we have, primarily the passion and talent of our young people. My favourite song is ‘Moses Supposes’, which our choreographer, Paddy Start, has infused with plenty of tap dancing and fun interactions.”

Singin’ in the Rain runs at Hull Truck Theatre from Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th April at 7:30pm nightly, as well as 2pm matinees on Thursday and Saturday. Tickets are priced £15-£17 and can be booked by visiting www.hulltruck.co.uk or calling the box office on 01482 323638.