What a theatrical week I have just enjoyed. First the excellent Flare Path which I wrote about previously and then, today, Guys and Dolls which was simply superb. Sorry if I'm coming over all luvvie-like but, honestly, there is nothing like live theatre at its very best, and I have to say there is nothing like one of those terrific American musicals from the mid-20th century. Frank Loesser doesn't have quite the high reputation of the Gershwins or Cole Porter and their ilk, but this musical matches their very best in intelligence and insight and enormous fun and reproduces the artful wit of the original writer of the story, Damon Runyon.
This particular production is a joint venture by Clwyd Theatr Cymru (why can't the bloody Taffs learn to spell?), The New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich and the Salisbury Playhouse, which is where I have just seen it. It has already toured some cities and towns and I assume it will go to others and if so, I urge you all to make an effort to see it. The cast are a stellar example of all that is best in British performing arts. Not only do they act, but they sing, they play musical instruments and they dance. The set design is exactly right in the way it evokes the 'Noo Yawk' of the '30s, and the director, Peter Rowe, in close co-operation with his choreographer, Francesca Jaynes, succeeds in rattling through this show with tremendous verve and energy. The whole company, on stage and back stage, deserve the highest possible praise.
Yes, this is 'feel good' theatre and, by golly, you really do feel good at the end of it - so what's wrong with that in these doom-laden days? If you can, go and see it, even if you have to travel to get there, you will come out feeling happier than when you went in - I promise!
Aren't you the lucky ones? I envy you this joy. "Guys and Dolls" is a wonderful "feel good" show and that's the best kind.
We have a local high school putting on their production of "Guys and Dolls" in the very near future and I intend to see it.
These youngsters are generally very very good.
I love Damon Runyon's books.
It's so good to come out of a theatre smiling and feeling at peace with the world, for a short time, at least.
Have you seen "Buena Vista Social Club"? That's just about my idea of the perfect movie... everyone has a good time, and what can be wrong with that?
Posted by: Sassyandra | Saturday, 14 May 2011 at 22:52
"everyone has a good time, and what can be wrong with that?"
Absolutely nothing!
Posted by: David Duff | Sunday, 15 May 2011 at 10:11