From the moment Klea Blackhurst makes her first spectacular entrance from the rear of Goodspeed Opera House's historic theater until her tour-de-force finale "So Long, Dearie," she takes the audience on a whirlwind adventure in much the same way her character, the infamous Dolly Gallagher-Levi, does.
Forget Barbra Streisand, Carol Channing, Pearl Bailey and any number of musical theater divas who have starred in Hello, Dolly! I guarantee you will leave the theatre remembering only one Dolly--Ms. Klea Blackhurst. The enthusiasm of last night's audience was marked by much applause that nearly catapulted into a standing ovation half-way through the show. Ms. Blackhurst's comedic scenes, including tender monologues delivered to her dead husband a comedic food frenzy, coupled with a stellar belting range, caused the crowd to stop the show several times to signal their appreciation.
Kudos to choreographer Kelli Barclay and Hello, Dolly's ensemble, especially the six dancers performing the spectacular "Waiters' Galop." They are Will Burton, Steve Geary, Drew Humphrey, Matthew J. Kilgore, Frankie Paparone and Robbie J. Smith. High-energy kicks, lifts, acrobatics, juggling and balancing acts again led to several minutes of non-stop applause. These young men hit every mark of the tightly staged number. "Put On Your Sunday Clothes" and "Hello, Dolly" were also followed by whistles, cheers and, again, much applause.
Intermingling with the audience, as she passes out her ubiquitous business cards, Ms. Blackhurst's Dolly is warm and engaging even as she manipulates those around her. Directed by Daniel Goldstein, who recently helmed Godspell on Broadway, this production reveals contemporary themes about the value of having wealth versus relationships. It also addresses the need for adventure and to live life fully. Portraying Cornelius Hackl, a loveable albeit naive 33-year old man, actor Spencer Moses poignantly performs "It Only Takes A Moment." The music and lyrics, by Jerry Herman, describe how quickly life-changing moments can occur. Moses is engaging as the quirky "chief clerk" of wealthy Horace Vandergelder's feed store. Additionally, his sidekick, Barnaby Tucker, played to perfection by Jeremy Morse, is hilarious both vocally and in executing his numerous pratfalls.
Overall, the production's momentum is swift and seamlessly moves from scene to scene as the actors themselves often navigate the simple but effective set pieces around the stage.
And, just when you think you've seen it all and had your fill of hilarity and laughs, Ms. Blackhurst delivers yet one more stunning scene in the courtroom. At the risk of revealing this delightful surprise, I will say no more. Let's just say, as a performer Ms. Blackhurst takes her time in setting up the punchline. And, we were not disappointed.
Hello, Dolly! is a great evening of professional theater in a venue like no other. Be sure to grab your tickets soon, though. Based on its popularity, the run has already been extended to Sept. 14.
Trust me, you will want to meet this Dolly.
For more information, go to goodspeed.org and call 203-873-8668.
