In their exhilarating production of “Singin’ in the Rain,” Rye Neck High School cast and crew gave it their all the weekend of February 28.

 

By Janice Llanes Fabry

 

In their exhilarating production of “Singin’ in the Rain,” Rye Neck High School cast and crew gave it their all the weekend of February 28. Memorable tunes, spot-on tap dancing, hilarious scenes, and authentic 1920s costuming and sets electrified the Performing Arts Center. When a high school musical presents its Superintendent, in this case, Peter Mustich wearing a fake mustache, in a filmed cameo, and manages to make it rain on stage, an outpour of praise is well deserved.

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Directed by Steven Loftus and Tricia Arenson, the production was a valiant revival of the 1952 musical about Hollywood in 1927 transitioning from silent movies to “talkies.” Loftus and Arenson were thrilled to work with such a “diligent and positive” cast and crew, who “gave everything to their vision.” They also dedicated the performances to Pat Rinello, who retired last year after 35 years in the district, after directing more than her fair share of legendary school musicals.

“Singin’ in the Rain” was a testament to countless hours of rehearsals. Production Manager and Theater Arts Director Patrick Ardinger said, “This show gave the audience spectacle after spectacle, and the energy of the cast was palpable. The rounds of laughter and standing ovations validated all their time, sweat, and determination.”