"Singin' in the Rain" opens at the Vam York Theatre

No one could forget Gene Kelley's iconic tap dance in the 1920s-set Singin' in the Rain. Now, the light-hearted musical is brought to the Gainesville stage, complete with the vividly colored costumes and the toe-tappin' music everyone loves. INsite got a sneak preview of director Bob Garrigues' adaptation, which truly pays tribute to the original '50s musical comedy.

Don Lockwood (played by Thomas Sanders) is a silent film star who falls for fiesty chorus girl Kathy Seldon (played by Stephanie Kelly). Don is an actor at a major film studio that's looking to create its first movie with sound. The only problem? Don's co-star, Lina Lamont (played by the hilarious Sarah Nessalroade), has terribly squeaky voice.

Even if you've never seen the movie, you'll love the details that make this stage performance seem larger than life, such as short clips of silent movies and the zany facial expressions of actors who aren't afraid to hold back. The signature tap dance even comes complete with a shiny umbrella and real rain.

Looking for the perfect excuse for a night out on the town? Ditch the traditional dinner-and-a-movie night and surprise your date with a theater-and-cocktails night. After this show, we bet you won't be able to resist skipping around in a classic tan trenchcoat the next time a Florida rainstorm hits.

Singin’ in the Rain opens today and runs through Sunday, Nov. 22, with performances Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:00 pm, and Sunday at 2:00 pm at the Vam York Theater on 16th Avenue. Tickets are $16 and may be purchased in advance at The Book Gallery West, 4121 NW 16th Blvd., in the Millhopper Shopping Center or one hour before showtime at the theater.

College and high school students with a valid student ID may purchase rush tickets for $10 beginning 30 minutes prior to the show if seats are available. For more information, visit http://www.gcplayhouse.org/.

--Allyson Ayers