Guys and Dolls

Guys and Dolls is a Golden Age Musical presented with the production values, finesse and polish we have come to expect at Koorliny, with intelligent and tender direction from Rp Van Der Westhuizen, one of the finest of Perth’s young directors. 

A non-specific multilevel set designed by Pear Carr allows the locales to change with ease, with furnishings carried in, with finesse, by the actors. The set is decorated with neon signs that give a Broadway feel. Lighting design by Kat Frieden and Chloe Palliser helps to hone location and uses color well. Lyn Leeder has produced a plethora of costumes - the highlight being the “Bushell and a Peck” costumes worn by Adelaide and the Hot Box Girls.

The show sounds great, with fabulous singing backed by a talented live band, under the baton of Musical Directors Tara Oorjitham and Taui Pinker.

Choreography, by Connie Wetherilt, was strong and fresh, and well executed by the cast who brought energy and verve to every number. 

Great work from “The Guys’. Lochlan Curtin led the cast well, as a charming and larrikin-like Sky Masterton. Ben Mullings was an impressive Nathan Detroit, handling his reluctant romance well. Jamie Jewell was fabulous throughout with his “Sit Down, You’re Rocking the Boat” finishing to well-deserved cheers. Jioji Nawanawa was great as Benny Southstreet, with strong support from William Foskett (Rusty Charlie). Pear Carr (Big Julie) and Thomas Dimmick (Harry the Horse). Geoff Leeder played Arvide Abernathy with heart, while revealing a talent for percussion, with the rest of “the guys” delivering strong performances.

Despite my desire to rename this show Guys and Guys (even the leading women have relatively little stage time), the Dolls in this production delivered spectacular performances that ensured that they were not overlooked. Hannah Charlotte was a Sarah Brown with quiet strength and determination, singing like a nightingale. Jenelle Russo quickly established herself as an audience favourite in a gorgeously sympathetic portrayal of Miss Adelaide. Sarah McCabe brought authority to General Matilda Cartwright (although I would have liked to see her more disguised when in the ensemble). The Mission Girls, including Hallelujah Selepe as Agatha, were excellent and the Hot Box Dancers, including Madeleine Shaw as Mimi, were fabulous throughout.

Don’t miss this rare chance to enjoy this classic musical. Koorliny have produced a show that will leave you smiling and singing your way home.

Kimberley Shaw