Guys and Dolls

It was interesting to see that, for their main production, Leeds G&S decided to leave the comfort zone of the Land of Titipu, the land of Cornish Pirates and relocate to the gambling dens of 1950's New York! What a change for them! Under the directorship of Anita Adams, this presented no problems for this talented cast - they even danced, so I can imagine that rehearsals were very interesting!

I understand that this musical was a favourite of its composer and lyricist, Frank Loesser, with a fine libretto from Abe Burrows, drawn from the tales of Damon Runyon, a New Yorker who wrote about people he knew well. Gambling is the key to this musical - on the turn of the dice, lives are on a roller coaster and this is reflected in the stories that evolved during the show; good, in the shape of Sarah Brown and her Mission, not so good in the shape of Sky Masterson, a dedicated gambling man and his shady associates.

The principals in this production were sensitively drawn characters, believable and energetic. Jasmine Caine (Sarah) was a convincing Salvationist, with clear,heartfelt diction and a superb voice as was Jason Weightman (Sky); their duet 'I'll Know', was beautifully delivered. Matt Stirk was a most likeable Nicely Nicely Johnson - what he lacked in girth was made up by his munching food all through the two acts! Of course, he had the best deal with the famous song, 'Sit Down, You're Rocking the Boat'  with an energetic chorus to accompany him! The long-term engaged couple, Nathan Detroit and Miss Adelaide, (Phillip Case and Amy Lynch) provided plenty of comic relief - good comic timing and singing. They were supported by a good team of fellow gamblers and Salvation Army followers, along with the hapless Lieutenant Brannigan - I particularly enjoyed the charming John Tattersall as Sarah's grandfather, Arvide and his rendition of 'More I Cannot Wish You'.

Musical Direction was in the expert hands of Jonathan Drummond, with a fine orchestra, situated at the back of the stage (but on show at various points). This made for good sound, not drowning out the singers.

The static set was well designed, with cast members changing furniture and props as the action moved from the New York streets, the Mission, Havana and the Sewers! Lighting also impressive, as was sound.

My only niggle was I felt a little more attention was needed to hair and costume accessories, but that's my only criticism.

Everyone on stage looked to be thoroughly enjoying themselves - and of course, we had a happy ending, pleasing a delighted audience!

My congratulations to you all!

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