Brierley Hill Musical Theatre Company Rock The Boat With Guys And Dolls

Image by Paul Costello http://www.paulcostello.co.uk/

Frank Loesser's Guys and Dolls is a timeless show featuring a host of toe-tapping melodies, so it was a delight to be invited to Brierley Hill Civic Hall for Brierley Hill Musical Theatre Company's production. The hall itself provided a beautiful setting, with a sweeping stage that still allowed you to feel entirely immersed in the performances.

Guys and Dolls is centred on the illegal gambling game, craps. However, this merely forms the foundations of the story, as love entwines around it and relationships are thrown into the spotlight. 

We are quickly introduced to 'good old reliable' Nathan Detroit played by Simon McGee. McGee's excellent stage presence and comic timing is matched superbly by Rebecca Thorne in the role of Miss Adelaide. Leading the Hot Box dances, Thorne oozed confidence and her song, Adelaide's Lament, was a joy to watch. 

A huge special mention must go to Jack Humphreys in his role as Nicely-Nicely Johnson. His mesmerising voice utterly shone in Sit Down You're Rockin' The Boat, with dazzling harmonies from the supporting ensemble. It was clear to see how much the audience enjoyed this number. 

The show was brilliantly led by Tom Robinson and Emma Worrall, playing Sky Masterson and Sarah Brown respectively. They both delivered assured performances and their chemistry had the audience rooting for them. Particular highlights were Worrall's charming If I Were A Bell and Robinson's slick Luck Be A Lady, which both showcased their lovely voices.

The principle cast were ably supported by a fine ensemble and an outstanding creative team. This show marked George Stuart's directing debut, a wonderful debut I must add. With sparkling choreography from Anna Forster and beautiful music direction from Paul Woodhall, BHMTC are a Brierley Hill gem.