Guys And Dolls

I was warmly welcomed by Chris Bareham, the show Director (and also Director of the Youth Theatre.) She explained that several of the cast are over 21, with the oldest currently aged 28.

Guys and Dolls is a romantic musical comedy set in Manhattan.The set ( courtesy of Scenic Projects) was simple and effective with minimal changes needed to portray Broadway, the Mission, the nightclub and Havana ! Stage Manager, Kevin Guymer,led the backstage crew in changing the sets and bringing on props but there were a couple of rather long gaps between set changes.

The musical opened with the company singing Runyonland a rousing chorus number which then led easily into the next scenes which introduced the principal characters and groupings to the audience.

Alex Round, playing Sarah, was well paired with John Hogan, playing Sky Masterson and they gave sensitive renditions of their duets ie I’ll Know and I’ve Never Been In Love Before. Alex had the stronger voice whilst I thought that Sky needed to project his voice a little more. However, the overall impact was good. Adelaide, played by Phoebe Wiggett, was a strong character, ably undertaken by Phoebe who succumbs to the charms of Nathan Detroit, played by James Hooker. James interpreted this role really well and put huge energy into his time on stage. Phoebe had a powerful voice, well suited to Adelaide’s musical numbers, especially A Bushel And A Peck and Marry The Man Today. The Guys, Peter McCarron (Nicely-Nicely), Ashley Glander (Big Jule), Edward Wayland ( Benny), Joe Meloy ( Lt Brannigan) and Korben Symmonds ( Harry the Horse) all played out their individual characters convincingly and, as a group, worked really well together. I especially enjoyed the musical numbers in which they were involved as some good voices were apparent. Highlights for me were Sit Down You’re Rocking The Boat and The Crapshooters Dance.

The Hot Box Girls had some lively dance routines, choreographed by Natalie Stock and Chris Bareham and were good backing for Adelaide in A Bushel And A Peck and Take Back Your Mink. There was a large chorus, including the Mission Group, all of whom were on stage a lot and were well choreographed to utilise the large stage to maximum effect. Both the Girl’s chorus and the Guy’s chorus showcased some talented young people who performed with great enthusiasm. Musical Director, Nik Graham( keyboard) led the band and singers through the lively and well known numbers, achieving strong direction whilst allowing the individual voices to shine through. This approach ensured that the volume was entirely appropriate. Lighting, spots and sound were all carefully designed to achieve maximum effect, whilst Wardrobe Mistress, Chris Bareham, had sourced appropriate costumes which really reflected the characters and the time.

This production played to a small but enthusiastic audience. Unfortunately, due to the size of the auditorium and large number of empty seats, it was difficult for the players to truly engage with the audience.

Nevertheless, it was a good production which I enjoyed very much.

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