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David Porter » Reviews » Guys and Dolls

Guys and Dolls

Guys and Dolls

at the Maddermarket Theatre, Norwich

Review published in the Eastern Daily Press, 17 September 2011.

Good to see the Maddermarket enthusiastically relishing the challenge of another classic musical. And they’re doing it brilliantly.

Set in New York’s 1950s seedy underworld, the unlikely love between a gambler and a Salvation Army sergeant is well sustained.

Every comic possibility is delivered with panache. The 3-piece band are outstanding.

Director John Mangan has done a creatively, deft job, alternating locations, maintaining pace and allowing song gems like The Oldest Established, I’ll Know, A Bushel and a Peck, Take Back Your Mink, Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat and Luck Be a Lady to speak for themselves.

He plays and dances a mean sidekick, clown-like character in it, too.

Melissa Sampson portrays the difficult buttoned-up/falling in love role, while Frederick Goymer as her redeemed sinner lover, is sincere, talented and effective. Barry Parsons as the big thug is convincing.

In the subplot, Trevor Burton plays slippery Nathan Detroit with perfect timing, and Louise Brighton his long-suffering fiancee of 14 years.

The supporting cast of Sally Army, ‘Hot Box’ girls and a motley crew of mobsters and no-goods are fun and gifted, making for a great evening out.

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