Hello Dolly

Based on "The Matchmaker" by Thornton Wilder and featuring music and lyrics by Jerry Herman, “Hello Dolly” tells the story of Dolly Gallagher Levi, a widow pursuing the single "half-a-millionaire" Horace Vandergelder, and how she also entangles herself in the love lives of his employees with hilarious and heart-warming consequences.

This production was simply staged using in the main furniture and properties to establish each of the scenes, this ensured that the pace of the show was never lost.

The cast of principals were very young but none the less capable and committed to the characters, and were ably supported by a strong chorus and supporting cast. The cameo roles of “Rudolf” (Martin O’Leary), “Ermengarde” (Shelly Nicholson), “Ambrose” (Sean Smith) “Ernistina” (Helen Land) and the “Judge” (Brian Hardy) were well played, each portraying memorable characters. The “Waiter’s Gallop” was well done and incorporated the waiters well with the action in the “Harmonia Gardens” scene.

Joel McShane, as “Barnaby Tucker”, gave his character a naivety that was endearing, and his musical numbers were well performed. He worked very well together with Matthew Rankcom as “Cornelius”.  Matthew delivered the role with energy as well as a suitably gentle and sincere side which was most apparent during ‘It Only Takes a Moment’ which was beautifully sung and acted. The role of “Minnie Fay” suited Gemma Hutchinson very well, and she provided an excellent contrast to her more mature and experienced employer “Irene Molloy” played by Michelle Oakes. There was good rapport between the two boys and two girls and they worked very well together, their “Elegance” number being particularly enjoyable.

Martyn Banks was superbly cast as “Horace Vandergelder”, never letting his character slip throughout the performance, and his acting and vocal performances were excellent. The title role of “Dolly” was portrayed with a “Streisand” touch by Kelsey Douglas. In a role played more often by women of double or more Kelsey’s age she held her own and gave an assured performance both acting and vocally.

Last, but certainly not least, the orchestra were excellent playing the Herman songs with verve they deserve.

Congratulations to all on bringing an old favourite new life.

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