The Tyler Junior College theatre, music and dance departments are bringing rain to the stage in their next production “Singin’ in the Rain.” With more than 40 cast members, a few challenges and determination, they expect good results. “It’s going to rain!” said Rebecca Faulds, director.The mind-boggling question as to how the theatre department is going to make the impossible possible is in the hands of Denise Weatherly-Greene. It will be TJC’s first inside downpour.TJC has staged large productions in the past, including “The Nutcracker,” “Peter Pan” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Each spring the theatre, music, and dance departments come together for a large production. “It is a challenge bringing tap dancing, singing, and acting together,” said Andrea Trent, music director.This semester the cast and crew are wasting no time as they used Martin Luther King Day, which most students observe as vacation time, as an opportunity to rehearse.They rehearse every day from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and sometimes even later into the evening in Wise Auditorium after classes have let out and most have gone home for the day. The performances open Feb. 24 through Feb. 27 in Wise Auditorium at 7:30 p.m.”As you can see, musicals aren’t the easiest but they are a lot of fun,” said Corey Finzel, TJC sophomore playing Don Lockwood.The cast member’s attitude and willingness to learn brings positive feelings to the entire cast about ending results. With several inexperienced tap dancers in this production, the cast members are really putting their best foot forward. Many would see this as intimidating but they look to Debbie Reynolds, the original Kathy Selden for their inspiration. She too was also a first-time tap dancer.The Box Office hours are weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Call (903) 510-2212 for reservations and questions. The Box Office opens one week prior to the opening date.
