AMATEUR THEATRE REVIEW: Guys And Dolls - The Little Theatre, Wigan.

This was my first visit to Wigan's Little Theatre. I had no preconceptions, but  was pleasantly surprised by how airy, roomy, and clean the theatre was. A large auditorium (with a circle!) and a larger-than-expected stage. 

A 21-strong cast - a very large cast for the size of stage - managed to negotiate this musical with ease. A minimal set design of Broadway lights at each side (flashing when necessary) and use of drapes brought in and out for each scene worked well. A slow start with the Runyonland Ballet (this was the weakest part of the show), but was immediately enlivened by a superb rendition by three of our protagonist crap-shooters, with 'Fugue For Tinhorns'. (excellently sung). 

Directed by Maureen Schofield, the show was set at a good pace, and her work on characterisation and character development was nicely handled. I especially enjoyed a most natural and believable portrayal of Nathan Detroit (Si Foster), and the transformation (not to mention the beautifully pure soprano tones) of Sarah Brown (Fiona Stewart). Special mentions to Becky Brown (Miss Adelaide) for her character development and singing, Colin Magenty (Arvide Abernathy) for his avuncular disposition and rendition of 'More I Cannot Wish You', and John Clinton as Big Jule, for being, well, Big Jule!

Using backing tracks always has its disadvantages, and this evening was no exception. I didn't understand the need to play overture / entr'acte etc when these were not live but recordings, and as such added nothing to the show, and there were a few times when the backing tracks were too slow for the way the cast member wished to sing / interpret the song. Sky Masterson (Jack Martin0 struggled with the orchestration of 'My Time Of Day' too, and so perhaps a little more rehearsal time with these issues would have been beneficial. 

Costuming was generally of period and worked well, and sound levels were superb all evening. Spot lights were a little slow finding their marks at times, but hopefully this will improve as the show runs.

Overall however, this was a proficient and upbeat show, delivered by a most enthusiastic and hard-working cast who cumulatively delivered an easily understandable and hugely enjoyable rendition of this classic musical. 

Reviewer - Matthew Dougall
on - 29.5.23