IT isn’t raining men at the Opera House for the next few weeks, but it is certainly raining. Twelve thousand litres of the wet stuff pours down on the stage, to recreate the scene from the iconic 1952 film Singin’ In The Rain.

The story centres on the silent movie stars Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont and their ability to make the leap into the unknown world of the talkies. Despite her glamour, Lina’s heavy New York accent and incredible high pitched voice do not make for audience appeal on the big screen. Faye Tozer as Lina and James Leece as Don are extremely talented performers, and Amy Ellen Richardson as Kathy has a singularly attractive personality and a sweet voice, in fact there are no weak links in this cast, with everyone acting with style, panache and wonderful exuberance. Stephen Anelli as Cosmo Brown is brilliant in Make em Laugh, a high octane, slapstick comedy routine and the use of movie inserts on a big screen, is particularly polished, providing an extra dimension to the story.

The famous dance in the rain is fabulous, such delightful good humour both from James Leece and also from the first few rows of the audience, who, I suspect rather wished they had brought their brollies.

The finale, with the whole cast stomping and gleefully kicking up their heels has us all on our feet and perhaps secretly wishing we too were close enough to feel the spray on our faces.

I have seen and enjoyed the film and was not disappointed with this stage version which brings to life with warmth and affection the old fashioned glamour of the early Hollywood days.

Wonderful show, enchanting music and that all important feel good factor.

* Until November 30. The box office is on 0844 847 2295. Star rating - ****