Guys And Dolls At The Alexandra Birmingham, Review

Reviewed by Alexander Wilde

Birmingham and Midland Operatic Society (BMOS) make a triumphant return to Birmingham’s Alexandra Theatre with Broadway smash ‘Guys and Dolls’!  Humble and historic beginnings, BMOS is the 10th oldest musical theatre company in the country. This is no am-dram; West End talent on show on stage, in the orchestral pit and behind the scenes.

Last performed by the company in 2002, this faithful production introduces a new generation of theatre goers to a seminal Broadway classic. Based on a series of short stories by Damon Runyon, acclaimed screenwriters Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows created a timeless classic with Tony Award winning Frank Loesser which premiered in 1950. Immensely popular, the show reached the West End in 1953 and became a movie in 1955. Starring Hollywood royalty Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons, Vivian Blaine and Frank Sinatra, and installing ‘Luck Be a Lady’ in the latter’s songbook.

Twin stories of love intertwine: suave sinner meets saint, alongside the gamophobic gambler and his gal. The plot is quite preposterous, but that’s the charm… set in 1920s New York City, gambling still remains illegal, yet the street are awash with guys willing to wager all they have. Enter serial better Nathan Detroit, desperately trying to raise a thousand dollars to finance a crap game. His mark the auspicious Sky Masterton; the wager he will be unable to take straight-laced missionary Sarah Brown on a date to Havana. Keeping a close eye on Nathan, long-suffering, fiancé, Miss Adelaide has aspirations of her own.

The stars are phenomenal and I couldn’t quite believe they weren’t performing for a living! With echoes of Simmons and Blaine, leading ladies Annabel Pilcher, perfectly aloof, and Jo Smith, the consummate showgirl, held the audience on every line and song. Their character’s lesser halves, actors James Gordanifar and Pat Pryce were perfect pairings and effortlessly seemed to capture the polar opposite guys – one self-assured and oozing style and the other feckless and humorous. A definite quartet powerhouse.

Laurel and Hardy-eque associates Nicely-Nicely Johnson (Alex Broadfield) and Benny Southstreet (Scott Hurley) were a particular favourite and set the mood of the musical comedy. Rich and clever narrative, characterisation and quips served as social commentary on the period and the addictive past-time.

Supported by a passionate ensemble, the stage bustled and hummed with energy. The company really came into their own with second act favourite ‘You’re Rockin’ the Boat’ – very nicely-nicely done! The casts’ mix of Yankee, New Jersey and Irish American accents flowed easily and added to the authenticity of the production.

A special mention to the Midland Concert Orchestra who performed the brassy score to the highest possible standard. Furthermore, the high production values in staging and costuming, combined with accomplished direction and management, radiated quality.

A comedic, toe-tapping and uplifting story of love conquers all. They say the house always wins, but perhaps it can’t conquer the heart
“Call it sad, call it funny, but it’s better than even money!”

Rating: Five stars!

A wonderful way to spend an evening at the resplendent Alexandra. With a central location, amble nearby parking and dining options, a fine bar and welcoming staff, I highly recommend it for an evening out.
Guys and Dolls is on stage from Tuesday 28th June – Saturday 2nd July 2022
Tickets available from £18.40, online at https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/guys-and-dolls/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/ or by calling the Box Office 0333 009 6690