Reviews of Hello Dolly
Wonderful Woman! Hats off to Debbie Hadley for a remarkable performance as the fast talking, wisecracking, all singing, all conquering Dolly Levi! From the moment she took the stage there was no doubt who was in control of this part of New York.
Equally, when Alan Bailey’s lugubrious Horace Vandergelder appeared, the audience was tingling with anticipation about just how explosive the clash of these particular Titans would be!
We were not disappointed. The show was fast paced and performed with professional gloss by the entire company. As we have come to expect, the choreography and dancing were first rate with excellent support from the ensemble.
The impressive, intricate set seemed to elevate all performances and added a slickness rarely seen in amateur productions.
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| Dolly and the waiters of the Harmonia Gardens Restaurant |
There was good ensemble playing from Sandi Wildash, Elena Wright, Laurence Butler and Nathan Hammant as the soon to be matched partners and a really engaging relationship developed between Marc Middlemass and Jenny Horseman as Ambrose Kemper and the ever weeping Ermingarde. Neil Perrin led his accomplished musicians through an upbeat, foot tapping series of well loved numbers.
It is difficult to select favourite moments in such a well produced and performed show – the showstoppers, from ‘Put on your Sunday clothes’ to ‘It only takes a moment’ were a delight and sung with great gusto. I was particularly impressed by the precise intricacy of the ‘Waiters’ Galop’ and the frantic business during Dolly’s thoughts on Motherhood.
For me, however, the very last scene, where Horace realises that his way and Dolly’s way are the same way, proved a most touching, intimate finale.
Lee and Pam – well done! Studio Theatre has built on the success of My Fair Lady to produce a show that was a delight!
I can’t wait for the next one!
Edwina Cooper
