DISTRICT 6 – Sylvia Blogg

GUYS AND DOLLS by Frank Loesser, Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows

Canterbury Operatic Society

Marlowe Theatre. Canterbury. 1st-5th May 2012

Director: Stephen Cresswell

Musical Director: Phil Hornsey

Choreographer: Caroline Milsom

This popular musical was a happy choice for this Society’s first production in the new Marlowe Theatre. The orchestra under the expert guidance of the highly proficient musical director interpreted the scintillating score at a fast-moving pace suitable to the story. Unfortunately, the orchestra was too loud for the dialogue of the gamblers who were inaudible in that scene. At all other times, the speech and projection of all the actors were excellent, as was the sound.

The show was very well cast. Michael Anders gave a very fine portrayal of Sky Masterson. He acted and sang well, excelling in “My Time of Day” and “Luck Be a Lady”. His rapport with the other gamblers as well as with Sarah Brown was excellent. Alice Martin as Sarah Brown, was delightful. Her beautiful singing voice was heard to advantage in all her lyrical numbers and she displayed great versatility in adapting to other styles of vocalism. She acted with great sincerity and looked charming.

Derry Martiin was particularly good as Nathan Detroit, maintaining an authentic accent throughout the evening. His duet with Adelaide, “Sue Me” was one of the highlights of the show. Claire Beechey brought out all the characteristics of Miss Adelaide that combine to make her such an amusing personality. Her rendering of her songs as well as acting were extremely good and the dramatic duet between her and Sarah, “Marry the Man Today” was a show-stopper. However, it was a mistake for her to bring on her delightful little dog, Pearl, in that scene. Miss Adelaide certainly would have had a dog but in a brilliant number that leads up to the climax of the show, Pearl was an unfortunate distraction.

As Nicely Nicely Johnson, David Bedford had an excellent opportunity to display his fine singing voice in “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat” undoubtedly the high-spot of the evening. It was brilliantly choreographed as well as sung.

The minor roles were well performed. Sid Moon, as Arvide Abernathy displayed a most melodious singing voice in his solo “More I Cannot Wish You”. Angela Bowden was convincing as General Cartwright as was Bill Brand as Lt. Brannigan and Jeff Harwood was ideal as Big Julie, both physically and dramatically.

The men’s choruses were outstanding in singing and in precision of movement. The only scene which was disappointing was the Havana scene which was not at all convincing. It lacked reality, especially the fight. The costumes of the Hot Box girls in “Bushel and a Peck” were very attractive. The sets were good and the scene changes efficient. Congratulations to the whole production team!