“What I have done in this process for help is I've just said 'help,'” says director Matthew Wagner who decided to also choreograph UMD’s upcoming production of Singing in the Rain. Wagner has assembled a team of three dance captains and an assistant director to share the load.
When the show was first proposed during season selection, Wagner felt strongly that the time was right. "We actually have the students who can do this show right now - let's do it," says Wagner. "It's really challenging stuff... the most exciting moment is seeing where we began versus where we are today."
With a show that is so well know, Wagner elected to take a unique approach. "Let's do movie magic," says Wagner of the atmospheric approach to the show. Rather than having various different locations, this production of Singing in the Rain takes place on a sound stage. "The whole thing is starting to take form in this lush, beautiful, exciting way."
Singing in the Rain opens this weekend at the University of Minnesota Duluth. Showtimes are April 14-25 and 18-22 at 7:30pm, and April 16 and 22 at 2pm. Tickets are available online.
