Guys And Dolls

What a great show to choose for AMP’s Diamond Jubilee and how well executed. This production brought out the love, the tensions and the humour between the characters, and with a new MD, some first class singing.  All principals carried their roles and songs with assurance: Jennifer Taylor as Sarah who turned from proper Salvation Army Leader to a convincing inebriate in Havana; Gary D’Arcy as Sky the cool gambler whose love for Sarah awakens a conscience; Stuart Bailey as Nathan who puts his fiancée of fourteen years second to his organisation of crap games; and Alison Wright as Adelaide whose long suffering wait for marriage is finally over. Highlights for me were:- ‘Adelaide’s Lament’ beautifully and poignantly delivered, while her comic take on ‘Bring Back Your Mink’ in Germanic vamp mode was truly memorable; the well harmonised ‘Fugue For Tinhorns’ and ‘Old Established’; and the well matched duets – between Sky and Sarah in ‘I’ll Know’, between Adelaide and Nathan in ‘Sue Me’ and between Adelaide and Sarah in ‘Marry the Man Today’ -where they brought out their passion as well as the notes. Arvide’s solo was touchingly sung by Colin Thomson. Gavin Orr as Nicely Nicely with his mannerisms brought a fresh approach and fine voice to the role. Ricky Cassidy as Lt. Brannigan played his part working hard at his American-Irish accent. Also contributing to the mood were the Havana Dancers, The Mission Band, The Hot Box Girls, who presented a different visual twist with their costumes in ‘Bushel And A Peck’, and the men who effectively conveyed their addiction to gambling. All came together in a rousing and uplifting ‘Rocking the Boat’.  Costumes and scenery complemented the action. This was a happy company show which delighted its audience. Congratulations.

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