The MDMS production of Sweet Charity at the Karralyka Theatre dives into the life of Charity Hope Valentine, a dance hall hostess in 1960s New York, whose unwavering optimism and pursuit of true love are central to the plot. Despite constantly facing bad luck in romance, Charity’s hope never fades, making her both an endearing and tragic character.
Set in a vibrant, seedy world filled with colourful characters, the musical blends comedy and drama, driven by high-energy choreography and memorable musical numbers. Directed and choreographed by Di Morgan, this production emphasises the show’s iconic dance sequences, including “The Rich Man’s Frug” and “Big Spender.” These scenes are known for their sharp, Fosse-inspired choreography and often reflect the cynical, harsh realities of Charity’s world.
Musical director Vicki Quinn leads the orchestra in delivering the energetic score by Cy Coleman, with lyrics by Dorothy Fields, bringing to life songs like “If My Friends Could See Me Now” and “There’s Gotta Be Something Better Than This.” These songs capture Charity’s dreams of escape and personal transformation. Charity’s journey is filled with humorous and poignant encounters, and the production captures the essence of Neil Simon’s witty dialogue, complemented by the evocative set pieces that highlight both the glamour and the grit of 1960s New York.
Madeleine Magetti’s portrayal of Charity Hope Valentine is captivating. She brings infectious energy and heartfelt vulnerability to the character, making Charity both loveable and complex. She excels in her comedic timing and emotional depth, particularly in numbers like “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” allowing the audience to connect with Charity’s journey of optimism and heartbreak. 
The chemistry between Madeleine Magetti and Leigh Roncon, who plays Oscar Lindquist, is another highlight of the production. Their interactions are filled with a delightful blend of humour and vulnerability, enhancing the emotional depth of their characters. In scenes where Oscar’s awkwardness meets Charity’s optimism, they create a dynamic that feels genuine and heartfelt. This chemistry is especially evident during their musical duets, where their voices and movements harmonise beautifully, reinforcing the connection between their characters. Together, they bring out the complexity of Charity and Oscar’s relationship, making their journey both relatable and entertaining. Their ability to balance comedic moments with deeper emotional beats creates a rich viewing experience, allowing the audience to root for their love story throughout the production.
Julian Campobasso’s performance as Vittorio Vidal is equally charming. He embodies the suave Italian movie star, adding humour and elegance to his interactions with Charity. Together, these performances create a rich and memorable experience for the audience, supported by a talented ensemble and creative team
Anne Dewar’s work on both the costumes and set design was nothing short of extraordinary! The costumes were a standout, perfectly capturing the essence of 1960s New York with a mix of glamorous, edgy, and playful styles that reflected each character’s personality. From the glitzy “Big Spender” outfits to the chic designs worn by Charity and the ensemble, every piece was impeccably crafted and visually stunning. The set design was equally impressive, pulling the audience into the lively world of dance halls and city streets. Anne Dewar’s clever use of space and props made each scene feel dynamic and helped shift between different moods effortlessly. The combination of her stunning costumes and thoughtful set design created a rich visual experience that truly brought the story to life, making it a memorable show for everyone involved.
The ensemble of Sweet Charity was fantastic, showcasing a masterful level of skill that truly elevated the production. Their energy and enthusiasm were palpable, particularly in the iconic dance numbers like “Big Spender” and “The Rhythm of Life,” where they brought a vibrant intensity to the stage. Each member of the ensemble played a vital role in creating the dynamic atmosphere, from their precise choreography to their seamless integration with the lead performances. Their synchronised movements, strong vocals, and collective energy were key elements that made the production so captivating and enjoyable.
Strictly running 18-27th October! Get out and see the show while you can.
