Ten Little Known Facts About Singin’ in the Rain

• It began as a collection of songs, not a story

Singin’ in the Rain was built around a catalogue of popular songs written by Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed in the late 1920s. The storyline was created later to connect these already well-known numbers.

• The plot mirrors a real turning point in film history

The story is set during Hollywood’s turbulent transition from silent films to “talkies”, a period marked by technical chaos, ruined careers, and sudden superstardom. Many of the film’s comic moments are rooted in genuine historical difficulties.

• The title song predates the film

The famous song Singin’ in the Rain was written in 1929, more than twenty years before the 1952 film was made. Its inclusion gave new life to a tune that audiences already recognised.

• The iconic rain scene was technically challenging

For the original film, milk was added to the water so that the rain would be visible on camera. Without this trick, the rain would have been almost invisible under studio lighting.

• The stage version features real rain

Modern stage productions famously use live rain on stage, requiring complex drainage systems, non-slip flooring, and specialised choreography. This makes it one of the most technically demanding moments in musical theatre.

• Dancing in water is far more difficult than it looks

Performers must maintain balance, rhythm, and vocal clarity while dancing in wet conditions. Considerable rehearsal is required to ensure both safety and consistency from performance to performance.

• The character of Lina Lamont reflects real silent-era stars

Lina’s famously unsuitable speaking voice echoes the fate of several silent film actresses whose careers declined rapidly once sound was introduced. While exaggerated for comedy, the character is historically plausible.

• “Make ’Em Laugh” is almost entirely physical comedy

The song Make ’Em Laugh is inspired by vaudeville traditions and silent film slapstick. It requires exceptional physical stamina and precise timing, making it one of the most demanding roles in the show.

• The film was not an immediate box-office phenomenon

Although now regarded as a classic, Singin’ in the Rain was not initially promoted as a prestige production. Its reputation grew steadily over time through critical reassessment and repeat screenings.

• The choreography blends classical dance with everyday movement

The show’s choreography combines traditional dance technique with walking, skipping, and spontaneous gestures, helping to create a sense of natural joy rather than formal spectacle.

Singin’ in the Rain will be held at Teatru Astra on the 14, 15, 19, 20, 21 and 22 March 2026.

This production is directed by Christopher Gatt, with the orchestra under George Apap’s baton, Sylvana Attard as Chorus Mistress and choreographed by Sarah Jane Zrinzo.

Singin’ in the Rain is supported by the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, MeDirect, Visit Malta and the Malta International Airport.

Bookings are open, and tickets are available on teatruastra.org.mt