GUYS AND DOLLS

HMTC’s 75th Anniversary production resulted in a lively and very entertaining show – “Guys and Dolls” is both uplifting and thought-provoking, with a good dash of humour.  I enjoyed my evening very much, and thank HMTC for their continued pursuit of excellence and diversity, which draws the audience in and from my point of view - shored up by thoughtful hospitality.

Direction was good – and the decision good to use a minimalistic setting worked for me – the use of light boxes to designate scenes was skilful in execution.  I would have liked to see the front stage extension used a little more.  Congratulations on getting around 20 men in the cast, all of whom were committed to the whole ethos of the piece.

Musically, I think the band in an off-stage scenario suits the venue much better with regard to sound balance, rather than being on stage or in front of the stage.  However, I heard conflicting views from some audience members!  The overture sounded a bit scrappy but it righted itself for the rest of the show.

Choreography suited the abilities of the cast, bearing in mind there were dancers and movers – so well done for keeping it in the realms of accomplishment for each – always a challenge, but one which was met well.  Havana was both colourful and energetic.

Sound was very suspect in the Fugue for Tinhorns the night I was there, such a shame, as it is a great number, but we missed a lot of the complicated harmonies, otherwise things were fine for the remainder of the production.  Lighting was very suitable throughout, and switched well within the requirements of the script.

Matt Fowler (Sky Masterson) gave us the suave, more sophisticated gambler, and I enjoyed his rendition of Never Been In Love Before, reflective and showing a different side to him.  Aly Morrell (Sarah Brown) showed a good understanding of the character - beautifully sung throughout.  A good pairing.

Ben Fricke (Nathan Detroit) gave us the real feel of a inborne gambler, eventually giving in to his long time love Jasmine Poulton (Miss Adelaide), who was a shining light in her delivery of the ditzy blonde, whose main aim was to get married – a great partnership, that I thoroughly enjoyed.

The trio of Adam Beckman (Nicely-Nicely Johnson), Howard Salinger (Benny Southstreet) and Ollie Slade (Rusty Charlie), were super, I loved what they did, with Adam giving us wonderful vocals, Ollie giving us his dancing expertise, and Howard giving the best performance I have seen from him – all melding together – well done guys.

The rogue duo that were Martin Scott (Harry the Horse) and Neil Ben (Big Jule) created a real gangster feel, a good contrast to the gamblers, adding a slightly sinister feel.

Mary Watkinson (General Cartwright) brought her experience to a small but vital role, extremely well done, a bright slightly edgy note in the Mission team.  Mark Wainwright (Arvide Abernathy) brought a manly charm to the part, which sat well against the General and Sarah, whilst Louise Thonger (Agatha) also added experience to the role.  A nice cohesive group, along with their Mission ensemble, all adding different characterisations.

The Hot Box Girls (Taylor Farnella, Emma Gracias, Alice Jackson, Lucy Lowe, Gabrielle Millard and Gill Pigram) created another dimension with their light-hearted giggly personas.  They made the most of their well-choreographed numbers.

Ian Fox (Lieutenant Brannigan) and Chris Eagles (Joey Biltmore) added another good dimension to the cast, whilst the Gangsters/Ensemble of ten men, showed their commitment to everything they did, with enthusiasm – nicely achieved.

All in all a great production of an old favourite, a very fitting tribute to HMTC’s 75th Anniversary.  My thanks to the Director for her insights into the production, and to Tess for hosting us so well.  A most enjoyable evening.

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