ENTHUSIASM is the hallmark of this production of Guys and Dolls, which is not the easiest of shows to stage and perform. Horwich give it their best shot and tackle it with gusto.

In Helen Price Aindow the society has an outstanding Adelaide who sings, dances and acts with style and on top of all that is very funny as the showgirl who has been engaged for 14 years to the reluctant groom Nathan Detroit.

Joe Simmons is well cast as Detroit who is a likeable rogue always on the look-out for crap-game venues.

Jan Ashton is suitably demure as the Mission sergeant Sarah Brown and displays a talent for comedy during the Havana scene when she loses her inhibitions and takes to the dance floor.

As the gambler who reforms for love the personable John Preston sings and acts well.

Led by Adelaide, the Hot Box dancers are beautifully over the top in such numbers as A Bushel and a Peck and Take Back Your Mink. Choreographer Gill Brown has clearly worked hard with her dolls - and guys.

Producer Sharon Morris makes the most of her cast's talents and, despite the frequent scene changes, the show moves along at a good rate.

It is heartening to see so many young people in the production, alongside more experienced performers. All are clearly enjoying themselves and this communicates itself to the audience. Doreen Crowther

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