Following in Gene Kelly's fleet-footed footsteps in a new stage production of Singin' In The Rain would daunt many actors. Not Paul Robinson. For him, reprising the role of Don Lockwood in the tale of the making of one of the first Hollywood musicals is all about 'having the opportunity to display my talent'.
Such confidence appears well founded. Despite one unscheduled fall on the opening night in Leeds, the reviews have positively drooled - and for good reason. As well as a fine voice and an acting style which perfectly captures the romantic comedy of MGM's most famous musical, Robinson adds spell-binding tap and dance skills to the mix. Throw in fine supporting performances and crisp production and you have a big hit.
Bolton-born Robinson started tapping in his teens. 'I learned without realising. I loved doing it so I worked hard. What I can do now is what I could do at ten years of age!' Yet despite making his major stage debut at the age of 17 in 42nd Street, and subsequently starring in everything from the Russ Abbot Show to Scrooge (alongside Anthony Newley) it's been a long haul to the top for the 34-year-old, who freely admits 'acting is very insecure. You can be a waiter one minute and a star the next. But that's what it's all about.'
In fact Robinson spent most of his twenties concentrating on choreography before bursting back on stage in hits such as Tap Dogs. Talking to him you get a real sense of a man who is genuinely delighted with the chance to emulate his heroes such as Sammy Davis Jr, and of course Gene Kelly himself. 'You've got to see the rain sequence ? it has got to be seen to be believed. It pisses down. I'm absolutely drenched by the end. But I mean, I'd pay for myself to do the show. Still, I've heard that Gene Kelly's widow is coming. So no pressure there!'
