Guys and Dolls

A big show needs a big opening and that’s just what we got! Colour, energy and fabulous chorus singing, this was the quintessential prescription for a happy show such as this.

Large, bright blocks of various sizes, replicating dice, provided the backbone of the staging, presenting a modern feel that fitted the production perfectly. Sound balance was as good as it gets, with the edgy band swapping between raunchy, ‘wa wa’ and salvation seamlessly.  A striking lighting design enhanced all aspects of the production admirably, although truth be told, on the very odd occasion it was a little gloomier than preferred to my taste, excluding the unfortunate malfunction which was, with all credibility, very swiftly dealt with.

Wardrobe really went to town, with beautiful costumes, particularly those worn by the stunning ‘hotbox’ girls who complimented the excellent moves we have learnt to expect from this choreographer who appears to instinctively know how to make any grade of dancer look good on stage.

Cast worked as a tight, integrated unit, displaying masses of energy and consistent believable accents with clear diction. Nathan and Adelaide made an excellent pairing, both brimming with confidence, every line of quick-fire dialogue bouncing off each other like a ping pong game.  Sarah Brown was acted with an air of dignity and everything else required for an almost perfect characterisation. Her scene with Abernathy was touching and staged beautifully simplistically. The relationship with Sky developed slowly and convincingly but while not wanting to take anything away from his extremely creditable performance, another five years of age would have given more solidity and meatiness to the character.  

The diverse selection of gamblers brought a wonderful, colourful individuality to the group; all were enjoyable to watch, with Harry the horse and his smoky voice worthy of particular note. Without doubt, all named parts, large and small gave 100% to this spectacular show. The quality of performance and musicality was high and easily comparable and as enjoyable as some professional productions seen.

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