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Guys & Dolls (1983)

An Inspired Production by Margaret Loran

An inspired production by John H. Palin of the popular musical "Guys and Dolls" last month included some really clever touches, a "swinging" musical accompaniment, the best choreography I have seen for a long time, and some fine singing. THe show, at the Majestic Cinema was by Macclesfield Majestic Theatre Group.

It was an ambitioius production with slick scene changes - the opening Act on Broadway featured slashing neon signs, and this attention to detail was carried right through the production. The American accents were also well done but not overplayed.

It always amazes me how well amateur societies with limited space, make full use of the stage, and ther was no better examplethan in the Havanna night club fight scene. With so many people in vigorous "combat". It wa a wonder no one got hurt.

Harvey Dickinson was a pefect Nicely-Nicely Johnson, a natural actor with a beautiful singing voice. He had played the part previously with a neighbouring society.

Another excellent portrayal was that of Adelaide, the night club singer who had been waiting

13 years to marry Nathan Detroit. Shirley Davies really got inside the part and particularly shone in the number "Take Back Your Mink" .

William Lees as Nathan was also toally believable and it was one the best performances I have seen him give.

A skillful interpretation of the Sky Masterson role was given by Alan Thurston who was in fine voice. Lesley Marshall making her debut with the society as Sarah Brown of the Salvation Army was more confident with her singing when in duet than when solo, her best song being "I've never been in love before", with Sky.

Tony Siddons made the most of his cameo part of Bonny Southstreet, and was in excellent voice. Also well cast were Harry Newton as Lt. Brannagan, David McGuiness (Harry the Horse) and Roger Hartley (Big Julie).

Other supporting roles wer by Deirdre Rogers, Joy Farmer, Margaret Rose, Len Lee, George Brown, Julie Preece and Peter Beard.

Musicians from the Northern Dance Orchestra made up the Hot Box Swingers and provided excellent accompaniment under Musical Director Keith Yearsley. Jean Patterson was the choreographer, Mary Cunningham, Wardobe Mistress, and Accompanist for all rehearsals was Kath Ibbotson.