Guys and Dolls

When it comes to musical theatre, the action is hot out in Ipswich – you can bet all your lettuce on that! The latest production of the award-winning classic, Guys and Dolls is bold and bright, and beautifully realised with an all singing, all dancing, all acting cast backed by a big live band.

The show kicks off with Runyonland, an exhilarating opening sequence choreographed by Simon Lind whose work is excellent throughout the whole show. Next, we have a personal favourite, Fugue for Tinhorns. The harmonies achieved in this, and in all of the musical numbers led by musical director Peter Laughton are absolutely heavenly. Other stand out songs of the evening are A Bushel and a Peck, Adelaide's Lament, My Time of Day/I've Never Been in Love Before, Luck Be a Lady, and best of all, Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat.

There are some very strong vocalists in the cast, especially Jacob Ballard, Samantha Sherrin, Kaitlyn Burton, James Burton, and Stu Fisher. Acting wise, Fisher is a standout again, bringing a lot of charisma and humour to Nicely-Nicely Johnson. Kaitlyn Burton is hilarious and heartwarming as Miss Adelaide. Grant Couchman is a lovely Arvide Abernathy and is particularly touching in More I Cannot Wish You. Jacob Ballard is a wonderful Sky Masterson, and he shares believable chemistry with Sister Sarah Brown, played beautifully by the multi-talented Samantha Sherrin.

All of the featured dancers work well together, and dance captain Tobey Ogilvie is a standout, as are Kamryn Mutzelburg, Alyssa Myers, and Louise Clarke. The ensemble players are also strong and well-rehearsed, bringing that epic level to the production that audiences love about big musical theatre shows.

Ipswich Musical Theatre Company has obviously put buckets of time, effort, and investment into realising and director Robbie Parkin’s brilliant vision. The impressive physical set by YourShow and Digital LED screens by CPC Productions, along with fabulous costume design by Delam Odger, captures the era perfectly and immerses the audience in this vibrant world. Producers Kenneth Mundt and Brenda Ryan should be applauded for their work in bringing together such a high standard of cast and crew.