REXBURG—Teton River Arts and Commerce makes a splash this weekend with its latest play! The community is invited to see “Singin’ in the Rain Jr.” this Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Romance Theater.
This is Director Kaatia Larsen’s fourth year with the Teton River Arts Summer Theatre Program. She is excited for audiences to see “Singin’ in the Rain” because it is more than just a two-week summer camp.
“Many of the people who've been involved they say that it's the best thing they've ever done,” Larsen said. “The highest quality and the most heart and they're very impressive shows.”
Even before camp begins, the cast and crew are learning lines and choreography, attending workshops and bonding with their fellow cast members. This show is even bigger than past shows, Larsen said, with new elements like tap dancing, black and white film projections and even making it rain on stage. With 53 campers, everyone has put in effort to bring “Singin’ in the Rain” to life for the audience.
“The ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ story is just magnificent,” said Peter Robins, who plays Cosmo Brown. “Even in just this one week, I've been able to see how much we are able to include the audience and have them feel like they're there in this story with you.”
Outside of the hours of the acting and dancing rehearsals, all the campers helped on the technical side, building and painting sets and making props. As a part of the theatre process, Larsen brought in guest coaches and workshops to help the kids develop their confidence and skills.
“Our director Kaatia Larsen is really great at creating such a friendly environment when you're there,” said Evelyn Bjork, who plays Kathy Selden. “And it's just really easy to connect with one another.”
Many of the kids enjoyed becoming friends from working together on the production whether it was their first or fourth year participating. A favorite number the lead cast members perform is “Good Morning,” a fun song about staying up late with friends.
“I feel like the chemistry between all of us and our characters really pops out of the stage,” said Ian Blair who plays Don Lockwood.
To go see “Singin’ in the Rain Jr.” this Friday and Saturday buy tickets at tetonriverarts.org. The Romance Theater is located Second East Main St. in Rexburg.
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