I love musicals. I love the singing, the dancing and the escapism; whether it be at the theatre or at the cinema, it’s difficult to beat a feel-good song and dance routine that promises grins for hours afterwards. This is exactly what Guys and Dolls, currently showing at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, promises; and it certainly doesn’t disappoint.
I love musicals. I love the singing, the dancing and the escapism; whether it be at the theatre or at the cinema, it’s difficult to beat a feel-good song and dance routine that promises grins for hours afterwards. This is exactly what Guys and Dolls, currently showing at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, promises; and it certainly doesn’t disappoint.For those, like myself, unfamiliar with the plot; Guys and Dolls is set in the hustle and bustle of New York City. The show opens with all a variety of different people interacting: criminals, drunks and tourists being a fraction of the many cliques on stage in the opening scene. Main characters are promptly established and introduced: Sky Masterson (played by Simon McGee) is a high roller unable to refuse a bet. Nathan Detroit (Roger Stokes), a regular host of illegal dice games, seizes the opportunity to make some easy money and bets Masterson he cannot woo Sarah Brown (Lucy Ellen Parker); an active member of the Save-a-Soul mission who cannot abide gamblers such as Masterson. Not only does the musical centre on this relationship, but many of their friends and acquaintances’ resulting in more than one wedding at the climax of the show.
The cast, consisting of members of South Staffs Musical Theatre Company, are excellent. I found it difficult to come up with any faults; all the parts, no matter how big or small, were played wonderfully. Masterson and Brown especially shine in the main roles, but special praise goes to the glorious group of gamblers that were consistently believable and entertaining. Serial gamblers Nicely-Nicely and Benny (played by Alf Rai and Will Phipps respectively) compliment each other wonderfully. This chemistry combined with their vibrant outfits makes them the perfect comedic double act. A big pet hate of mine is badly done accents; I was especially impressed with all of performers believable American twangs, that managed to hold up even throughout solo vocals.
It’s impossible to write this review without mentioning what a fantastic job the backstage crew did with the costumes, smooth scene changes and backdrops. Working in backstage management throughout school I empathise with how difficult it can be to create the perfect props. The behind-the-scenes guys (and dolls) did a fantastic job in all areas. The costumes were brilliant; classically American yet remaining stylish. Each character is easily recognisable by their clothes: be it colourful suits to indicate gamblers or the red marching band outfit sported by the missionaries.
South Staffs Musical Theatre Company’s production of Guys and Dolls provides everything for a great night out: splendid songs, large laughs and tonnes of talent. Be sure to grab tickets before it sells out!
Reviewed By Amy Moss – Entertainment Reviewer
More Information:
Venue: Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1DE
Performance Dates: Tuesday 11th October to Saturday 15th October 2011 7.30pm
Matinees:Saturday 2.30pm
Tickets:Tues – Thurs eves & both matinees £6.50 – £17 / Fri & Sat eves £6.50 – £18.
Box Office: 01902 42 92 12
Online: grandtheatre.co.uk
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