Review: Imelda Staunton is a Glimmering and Extravagant Dolly!

Following delays caused by the pandemic, the revival has, at long last, graced the West End stage, offering a performance that is undeniably spectacular!

★★★★★

There is no question that Hello, Dolly! is an American Classic, but I must say that the Brits have outdone themselves with this star-studded production that played at the London Palladium in the West End. Based on the Thornton Wilder play, The Matchmaker, we follow the ever-ambitious Dolly Levi (played in this production by stage and screen legend Imelda Staunton) as she uses her talents as a, you guessed it, matchmaker. That said, she wants a match for herself. She finds that in Horace Vandergelder (played by Andy Nyman).

Whenever a classic show like this one gets revived, we always expect something that stands out from previous productions. There were some significant differences compared to the last Broadway revival in 2017, which starred Bette Midler. There were numbers that were brought back that showed Dolly’s softer moments as she desperately wanted the spirit of her late husband to give her a sign to let her fall in love all over again. This production tended to use elements from the film version that starred Barbara Streisand as Dolly. I felt that weaving elements from the film and the stage improved this production. It gave more energy and made the audience laugh vibrantly. 

The set design by Rae Smith is nothing short of extraordinary. It perfectly captures the essence of the period with a stunning blend of vintage charm and timeless elegance. Every set piece feels genuinely authentic. It transports the audience to the bustling streets of Yonkers and Manhattan with an atmosphere that feels both grand and intimate. With that, Smith’s costume design is equally beautiful. Each garment is carefully crafted to reflect the social hierarchy and fashion of the 19th century. Imelda Staunton’s stunning green dress in the title number is one standout in this production. This is a bold departure from Dolly’s traditional red dress. This choice was unexpected, but it was definitely a refreshing choice that made the character feel fresh and distinct in this production, while staying true to the period. The video designed by Finn Ross is exceptional and blends really well with Smith’s set. It enhances the storytelling even further by adding depth and texture. 

There is nothing more outstanding than the cast of actors in this production. Imelda Staunton, who is a legend on stage and screen, did not disappoint but exceeded my expectations as the title character. She brings class and pure buoyancy to the role. While she may be the shining star of this production, it should be worth noting that her supporting cast was extraordinary in their respective roles.

Overall, I have no doubt that the creative team behind this production have hit a home run. Frankly, even though the run was very limited, it surely was worth the four-year wait since it was first announced. Though it seems highly unlikely this will transfer anywhere else, it will truly be a theatrical spectacle to remember. Dolly may have said, “So Long, Dearie,” to the West End, but always remember, she will be back one day where she belongs!

Hello, Dolly! - London Palladium

Attended on 13 September 2024