Review: GUYS AND DOLLS

 Guys and Dolls is a classic musical comedy because of its funny book by Abe Burrows and Jo Swerling and its hit-filled score by Frank Loesser. The production currently on view at Stage West is enjoyable but falls short of maintaining the show's exalted status.

 

 The cast is capable and at times inspired. Larry Mannell as Nathan Detroit, comes down firmly in the inspired column, thanks to his comedic timing. As his long-time fiancée Miss Adelaide, Lisa Horner is source of endless pleasure. Her performance of "Adelaide's Lament" is about as close to perfection as one could wish for.

 Leah Oster as Sarah Brown shows off her silvery soprano in several songs but is slightly limited in her acting range. On the other hand, Derek Marshall is properly dashing as Sky Masterson but proves a little stronger with acting than singing.

 Part of this is due to a script that is now close to sixty years old, but the problems inherent are exacerbated by Max Reimer's frantic staging. Guys and Dolls, like many shows of its period, has an overlong first act that can drag but here the super-fast pacing undercuts the heart of the show and robs the audience of any emotional involvement with the characters.

 Still, there are moments of tenderness, notably Doug Chamberlain's heartfelt "More I Cannot Wish You" – so simply and eloquently staged.

At the other end of the scale is the "Sit Down You're Rockin' The Boat" given a lively staging with Avery Saltzman give near-perfect portrayal of Nicely Nicely Johnson.  If only the rest of the show were at this level. It isn't.

Jim Soper fails to milk the comic potential of gambler Big Jule and "The Crap Game Ballet" which normally is the dance highlight of the show suffers from a lack a choreographic variety.

What we are left with is a cartoon on stage, emphasized by Samantha Burson's inventive set and Ivan Brozic's colourful costumes. Anthony Bastianon's band provides solid support but lacks the size and stature to give the proper period flavour.

There is enough razzle-dazzle here for a solidly entertaining Guys and Dolls, but one that fails to spotlight the elements that make this musical comedy such a classic.

 

 Guys and Dolls plays Tuesdays through Sundays at Stage West Dinner theatre until April 29 with matinee performances offered on Wednesdays and Sundays.  Dinner/Show tickets may be reserved by visiting www.stagewest.com or calling the box office at 905-238-0042.

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