Guys and Dolls is a classic musical comedy which could, these days, seem a little dated. But Lichfield Operatic Society this week brought a freshness to the show with a lavish production at the Garrick.
The story of gamblers and gangsters versus the good people of the Salvation Army was delivered with a great deal of humour by the principals and included some masterful production numbers by the whole cast.
The principals – Pete Beck as Sky Masterson, Charlotte Middleton as Sarah Brown, Vickie Beck as Miss Adelaide, James Pugh as Nathan Detroit, Patrick Jervis as Benny Southstreet and Oliver Rowe as Nicely Nicely Johnson – all turned in remarkable performances.
Vickie’s Miss Adelaide was particularly notable – a dream of a role for an actress who knows how to truly entertain an audience.
The scene which almost brought the audience to its feet featured the whole company led by Oliver Rowe singing Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat – just glorious!
Director Julie Mallaband created lots of amusing touches – I just loved the Salvation Army band with the girl at the front banging tiny cymbals at the start of the show, progressing to huge ones at the end.
The dance routines were particularly noteworthy, demonstrating the amount of work put in by the performers and choreographer Jessica Lambert.
Musical Director Mark Timms, making his debut with the company, led a first class orchestra and the production crew was, as usual, faultless.
There were too many excellent performances in this production to name everyone, but suffice it to say, this was a great, feel-good show which saw the audience leaving with smiles on their faces.
Couldn’t ask for more!
Guys and Dolls runs until today (October 15). Tickets can be booked by calling 01543 412121 or visiting www.lichfieldgarrick.com.
The society’s next production is Annie in April next year.