Gene Kelly's Widow, Patricia Ward Kelly, Inspires Young Performers

The Holly Chin Natick Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) is abuzz with excitement as they prepare for their upcoming production of "Singin' in the Rain Jr." But what makes this production even more special is the recent visit of a very special guest - none other than Patricia Ward Kelly, the widow of the legendary Gene Kelly himself.

On May 2nd, Patricia Ward Kelly joined the cast of "Singin’ in the Rain" over Zoom, offering a rare and invaluable opportunity for the young performers to gain insight into the iconic work of her late husband. Holly Chin, the director of the production, expressed her elation in a heartfelt statement: "It’s official!!! Patricia Ward Kelly…yes, THEE Mrs. Gene Kelly joined my cast of Singin’ in the Rain on May 2nd over Zoom!!! Mrs Kelly spoke with my students, watched a dance or two from our show, and shared some stories. Words cannot express my gratitude to her for taking the time to do this for my students. This is a dream! 🎶Could someone pinch me please!!🎶"

For the students of NAPA, this encounter was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Gene Kelly's contributions to the world of performing arts are unparalleled, and having the chance to hear personal anecdotes and insights from his widow was an extraordinary privilege.

During her talk with the cast, Patricia Ward Kelly shared profound insights about the reciprocal nature of being on stage, highlighting Gene Kelly's preference for live performance over movies. He would react to the audience and move with the audience. Patricia encouraged the cast to use their performance as a way to start a conversation with the audience. "If we aren't connecting with people, then what's the point?" she remarked. "Gene always said that the point of Singin' in the Rain was to bring joy."

"Singin' in the Rain" holds a special place in the hearts of many, not only for its timeless music and captivating dance sequences but also for the sheer joy it brings to audiences of all ages. The production, to be held at Mass Bay Community College in Wellesley MA, follows the story of Don Lockwood, a silent film star facing the transition to talking pictures, and his journey through love and career challenges in 1920s Hollywood.

As the cast of "Singin' in the Rain Jr." prepares to take the stage on Saturday, May 11th at 7pm and Sunday, May 12th at 1pm, they do so with newfound inspiration and insight, thanks to the generosity and kindness of Patricia Ward Kelly. Her visit served as a reminder of the power of storytelling, the magic of live performance, and the lasting impact of one man's artistic vision.

In a touching tribute to Gene Kelly, NAPA will be incorporating a picture of the legendary performer into the set design for Don Lockwood's apartment, honoring his legacy and contribution to the world of musical theater.

In the words of Holly Chin, this encounter with Mrs. Gene Kelly was truly a dream come true for the students of NAPA. As they dance and sing their hearts out on stage, they carry with them the legacy of a Hollywood legend and the invaluable lessons imparted by his devoted widow.

This production of "Singin' in the Rain Jr." at Mass Bay Community College in Wellesley MA promises to be a fantastic Mother's Day event for all ages, offering the perfect opportunity to celebrate the magic of musical theater and the enduring legacy of Gene Kelly's masterpiece.

Tickets are on sale now at www.napastage.org/tickets.