Meet the “Singin’ in the Rain” cast: Wensley ready to hit the stage as song-and-dance man Don Lockwood

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The Community Theatre of Howell is presenting the musical “Singin’ in the Rain Jr.” this weekend at the Howell High School Freshman Campus. From now until opening night on March 15, we’ll be introducing you to members of the cast. In today’s story, we meet Jared Wensley, who plays Don Lockwood.

Driving every day from Canton to Howell for theater rehearsal is no barrier for Jared Wensley, who was willing to make the trek on a daily basis to play one of the leads, Don Lockwood, in CTH’s new production of “Singin’ in the Rain Jr.”

Jared, an 11th-grader, worked backstage for several CTH shows before making the jump to the stage. And he loves it.

“I have always loved the environment surrounding CTH shows,” Jaren said. “I’ve helped on crew for many shows and I have enjoyed every single one. The more you are around the theater the more you enjoy it. You become part of the CTH family.”

Jaren Wensley as Don Lockwood.

Jared comes from a large family, joining siblings Curt, Christy, Sam, Ryan and Jason.

He’s no stranger to the stage, having performed numerous parts in the past.

“I have performed three times before in middle school,” he said. “My favorite was ‘Much Ado About Nothing.’ I have never had a big role and didn’t learn much about acting and character. I have helped with the crew of about 10 shows, including my school shows.”

Jared said that one theatrical experience certainly sticks out.

“My favorite theater experience is doing backstage for my school,” he said. “When they performed ‘Mary Poppins,’ I was on the catwalk above the stage holding a kite down. It was very fun and kinda scary.”

Jared’s current production, “Singin’ in the Rain,” uses music and comedy to tell the tale of what happened in Hollywood when silent movies gave way to talkies. 

“I really enjoy the environment and intent,” he said. “The community is structured with kind and funny people. The directors have a intent to build the actors ability to act. They talk with you about how your character is feeling and thinking. They give us the freedom to act out scenes and say what they like and dislike. I just love the connection between the directors and the cast. “

With opening night coming up, Jared can’t wait for the audiences to start showing up.

“Audiences can expect to see a play that shows a real talent in acting and dancing,” he said. “Our cast and crew have worked hard to make the audience experience the best it can be. Many of our dances numbers are based on the original choreography. Whether you are coming for a family member, a friend or to see a title you have heard of, you won’t be disappointed.”

“Singin’ in the Rain Jr.” takes place March 15-17 at the Howell High School Freshman Campus.  Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with 2 p.m. matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $9, available by clicking here.

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