DOWNEY - Where many civic light operas in the Southland are going under, the Downey Civic Light Opera continues its successful run under the leadership of Marsha Moode, who directs its newest production, "Singin' in the Rain," opening Sept. 29 at the Downey Theatre.The DCLO, formed in 1978, has been under Moode's stewardship since she became executive producer in 2000 (she started earlier as head of DCLO's publicity). "Singin' in the Rain," first produced by the DCLO in 1990, is the 27th musical she's directed for the organization, a roster that includes classics such as, "The King and I," "The Sound of Music," "My Fair Lady," "Oklahoma," "Guys and Dolls," "Cabaret" and "South Pacific." Much of the DCLO's success is owed to Moode's prominence in the community. She's been named Volunteer of the Year by the Downey Chamber of Commerce, a Woman of Distinction by Soroptimist International, and a Woman Making History in the Southland by the League of Women Voters. For the past 18 years she's also hosted a political campaign discussion program for Time Warner, and a 90-minute interview show called "Good Company." "It's been 21 years since our last production of 'Singin' in the Rain,'" Moode said. "We're delighted to be presenting this '20s era show again. It's always interesting to see how good musicals don't date, but seem fresh in new times." Group prices are available for this family-friendly show. For tickets, call (562) 923-1714.

********** Published: September 15, 2011 - Volume 10 - Issue 22