Guys & Dolls

Greeted by General Cartwright (Brenda Slaughter), the pre-show included tour guides, ice cream sellers, Salvation Army, Mindys Cheesecake and hot dogs to boot!  Complementing this a band of streetwise gamblers “shooting craps” welcomed the audience to the streets of New York. Hilltop really does excel in creating a first class atmosphere from the minute you walk through the door.

Guys and Dolls is a huge undertaking for any company, and the limitations of the stage did hinder somewhat the flow, pace and execution of this production. That being said, James Randell was in fine form as Sky and was beautifully matched by Rhiannon Owen who gave us a very believable Sarah Brown. Rhiannon has a great voice and the duet I’ve Never Been In Love Before was very well executed. Tim Driscolls portrayal of Nathan was the best I have seen, sung and delivered with panache while continually eluding the eager intentions of Miss Adelaide played by Angie Dymott.

With so many supporting actors that are key to the shows success, I feel I must single out two in particular. Phil Davies as Arvide was perfectly cast in the role, delivering More I Cannot Wish You, beautifully with an element of paternal comedy, well played. Mike Beavan as Nicely Nicely Johnson was outstanding, eating his way through the show and delivering the performance of the night in the number Sit Down Your Rocking the Boat. A keen orchestra under the guidance of Linda Coombes and some innovative lighting kept the show moving along. Looking forward to Calendar Girls in June. Well done and thank you for the invite.

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