IT is a brave company who undertake a show where the film is so well known. Wimborne Musical Theatre has and the result is not one to be ashamed of. A few first night nerves appeared to affect one or two of the performances making it difficult to hear some of the dialogue, not helped by some gremlins in the sound system!

Sharron Pearcey (Dolly Levi) portrayed the comedy to perfection and her soliloquies to her late husband Ephraim were charged with emotion. She appeared a little ill at ease in some of the musical numbers, however, So Long Dearie more than made up for this. There were good characterisations throughout but special mention should go to Chris Carr (Barnaby Tucker) and Lisa Hopton (Minnie Fay) who, for me, stole the show.

Unfortunately, one of the main highlights, The Waiter’s Gallop seriously lacked the gallop. The male chorus did make a valiant effort, assisted by four waitresses, but it didn’t quite work!

Superb costumes, scenery and lighting effects helped to enhance the spectacle especially in the Hello Dolly number, when the chorus singing excelled. It was a nice touch to include members of the Dorset Youth Marching Band to head the 14th Street Parade.