FRONT ROW punters at a stunning new production of 'Singin' in the Rain' at Hanley's Regent Theatre next month should prepare themselves for a soaking.

Those brave enough to book a close up view of the musical, on from May 14-25, will be provided with plastic ponchos to protect them from the splashes thrown up as 1,000 litres of water are pumped around the stage for the famous street dance sequence.

West Yorkshire Playhouse and the Royal National Theatre team up for this Olivier Award-winning production which celebrates the 50th anniversary of the musical.

Following in Gene Kelly's footsteps in the lead role of movie star 'Don Lockwood' is Darren Bennett.

He has enjoyed huge success in 'West Side Story' and '42nd Street'

Richard Brightiff ('Some Like it Hot', 'Me and My Girl' and 'Jolson') plays his companion 'Cosmo Brown'.

This revival chronicles one of the most memorable events in the history of entertainment; when the silver screen found its voice.

With all the ravishing and spectacular trappings of this glittering era, the musical tells a tale of love and intrigue set at the heart of the movie industry and features such memorable songs as 'Be a Clown', 'Good Morning', 'Moses Supposes', 'Make 'em' Laugh' and, of course, the classic title song.

Box office - 01782 213800.