Hello Dolly!

“Hello Dolly!’ is still glowin’ and goin’ strong at the Little Theatre in Donnington. A whirlwind race round New York and Yonkers is by far the best adventure for Mrs Levi’s efforts to marry Horace Vandergelder (the well known half millionaire) so that she can send his money circulating out like rainwater. Along the way she succeeds in matching Irene Molloy with Vandergelders chief clerk Cornelius Hackl and Cornelius’s assistant Barnaby Tucker with Mrs Molloy’s assistant Minnie Fay, and of course Ambrose Kemper with Vendergelders niece Ermengarde. A lot of romantic meddling for just one day!

The idea of Dolly Levi being played by a man has always been there from the original productions but it has always been finding a producer brave enough to do it. I was intrigued to see how Stephen Davies would approach the part following in the legendary footsteps of great names such as Lee Roy Reams and Danny La Rue. I am pleased to say that the role was played perfectly, with a good mix of pathos and comedy. Stephen’s mannerisms were just enough with out being over theatrical and his commitment to being Dolly made the role believable. A special mention here to Mary Dixon for Dolly Levi’s costumes especially the gown for the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant, which was stunning.

Geoff Powell played Vandergelder and his grumpiness was a lovely contrast to that of Dolly.

Cornelius and Barnaby (Simon Lloyd-Roberts and George Price) along with Irene and Minnie (Kimberley Cassells and Emma Finch) were well matched and provided much comedy, dancing and lovely singing.

Indraroop Chakraborty provided great comedy in the roles of both Rudolph Reisenweber and the Judge and Leah Hancox who played a lovely Ermengarde.

Nina Aver provided the choreography; I liked the simplicity of the steps that were well executed by the cast in a limited space.

The musicians under the command of Musical Director Garry Bailey did battle amongst themselves at times on the evening that I attended especially which was particularly noticeable during the waiters gallop.

There was a real sense of warmth in this production, the pace was good, and the delivery of comedy was spot on ensuring the cast were having the time of their lives.

Well done to the shows Director Lynne James for adapting this Broadway showstopper on to a smaller stage and for gifting the audience with the overwhelming warmth delivered in this production.

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