Hello Dolly, presented by Royal City Musical Theatre Company, opens April 12 at New Westminster's Massey Theatre. This well-loved, big Broadwaystyle musical is sure to appeal to almost everyone - the music is magical, the story line is timeless, and Royal City has all the important bits put together properly to bring the musical to life. Just for our viewing pleasure. And a pleasure it will be for sure. The show runs until April 28, ticket prices range from $20 to $39, and can be purchased at 604521-5050, or visit the Royal City website and order online. Check out all the information while you are there as well.

Coleen Winton stars as Dolly Gallagher Levi and David Adams is Horace Vandergelder. Two absolutely favourite (of mine anyway) musical theatre performers. Dolly is a matchmaker and sets out to find the perfect match for her "clients." Horace is a client, but Dolly decides to snag Horace for herself - before the parade passes by. Dolly is a larger than life personality and Winton is capable of selling Dolly. David Adams appeared as the King of Siam in Royal City's production of The King and I. That was a few years ago, and I've been a big fan of his ever since then.

OK, so the stars are fab. What about the rest of the cast? Director/ choreographer Valerie Easton has repeatedly delivered the goods. Last year's Will Rogers Follies was amazing! I didn't think it could be better than Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - also directed and choreographed by Valerie Easton. Bottom line: always entertaining, well rehearsed, exciting and full of energy. Thank you Valerie.

All of Royal City shows feature a large cast. Dolly is no exception, with its 40plus cast. And don't forget to add in the musicians under the direction of James Bryson. So of course there are a few folks who live in Surrey and cross the river for rehearsals three times a week or so. Kayla Dunbar is Minnie Fay, Dustin Freeman is Cornelius, Jenn Riehl is Mrs. Rose and Kevin Kreiz is in the dance ensemble. Producer Chad Matchette is also from Surrey. He is a fantastic performer and I love seeing him on stage. Nice guy, Chad. Talented. Even as a producer.

No musical can be big and splashy without stunning costumes. Christina Sinosich has been the costume designer for Royal City for what seems like forever. She always gets the job done and then some. Costuming will be spectacular - guaranteed.

So there is my view of Hello Dolly, presented by Royal City Musical Theatre. The cast, crew and production team have done their job. The rest is up to us. Buy tickets. Now in its 23rd season, Royal City has a history of excellence in producing large scale musicals. Few companies can afford to do it anymore. Big musicals can take big money to mount and Royal City's secret to success is the extensive use of amateur (unpaid) talent and volunteers. I figure the least we can do is to buy a few tickets and go out and enjoy ourselves for an evening of musical theatre extravaganza. I have never walked away from a Royal City show feeling disappointed - and I have never missed a show in 22 years. So put on your Sunday clothes and say hello to Dolly.

melminty@telus.net