Guys and Dolls

There was a huge buzz of anticipation as I entered the theatre and the near capacity audience was very well engaged from the very beginning. The set on stage was minimal and very attractive and mainly achieved through clever use of neon lighting to denote the New York skyline. Changing colours of the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty positioned on either side of the stage added atmosphere. The sizeable band was located above the stage allowing maximum space for the large cast on stage. Props to denote scene changes were moved on and off fluently, frequently by cast members and mainly consisted of tables and chairs. In addition there was a very realistic phone booth at one point and signs above the stage.

Sound levels were exceptionally good and all actors could be heard clearly. Spot lighting was often used to divert audience attention from props being changed at the back.

The costumes, mostly hired and sourced by the society were very relevant to the characters and most were very colourful. I particularly liked the outfits of the Hot Box Girls and really admired the very colourful suits of the Gamblers.

The choreography was very varied and in some cases quite challenging. Every movement on stage by this talented and energetic cast was well planned and the entire stage was fully used. Many congratulations to the choreographers Wade and Harriet Ablitt and the two Dance Captains for their creativity and hard work. There were no weak links with everyone including the ensemble totally in step and in time.

The large orchestra (12 members) was ably directed by Rob Miles and provided good direction and support to the cast. It was such a joy to listen to the so familiar songs and accompaniments. Well done!

This was a fast moving, highly energetic and sophisticated production with some stellar performances from this talented cast all of whom performed to a high standard and there were a number of bold and strong characters. Everyone maintained their accents well. The two loveable rogues, Richard Woodford as the suave and confident Sky Masterson and Jonathan Davis as the crafty con man Nathan Detroit were very well cast and both had strong vocal ability. Mathilde Marsh was Sarah Brown, the Head of the Mission, a rather prim character who was principled and rather naive. I enjoyed her beautiful solo of If I Were A Bell. The character of Miss Adelaide, ably played by Holly Bird was completely different being vibrant and brash and again well played. I enjoyed her numbers with the Hot Box Girls ie A Bushell and a Peck and Take Back Your Mink. There was a superb duet between Sky and Sarah, I’ve Never Been In Love Before with their voices blending perfectly.

My favourite spot was Wilfred Kemsley, Nathan’s sidekick, leading the cast in a magnificent set piece of Sit Down You’re Rocking The Boat. Brilliant!

Samuel Carbonero was the charmer Benny Southgate whilst Emma Theadom gave a sparkling performance as MC. Suki Skelton was a convincing, no nonsense General Cartwright whilst Wayne Setford was a somewhat hapless Lt Brannigan. Graham Bowden was Sarah’s grandfather Arvide and a member of the Mission Band and had a lovely and sentimental solo.

There were several smaller roles and of course, the inveterate gamblers. Every character on stage had really mastered their role and all were intrinsic to the storyline.

Many congratulations to Director Wade Ablitt for his creativity and imagination in bringing this classic story to the stage. Well done to everyone for such a polished production and a very enjoyable evening.

 

 

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