I didn’t realize until I started writing this piece that Hello Dolly is the original “Materialists.” 

But while the film Materialists, currently in theatres, is criticized for its grim look on relationships, Hello Dolly, currently playing at Music Circus in Sacramento, is a show that will have you smiling from ear to ear. 

The story centers on Dolly Gallagher Levi played by Karen Ziemba, a widow, and what today we would call a multi-hyphenate. Dolly is a matchmaker-dance instructor-lawyer and whatever other career she deems necessary at the moment. 

But while she can be independent, Dolly has set her mind on marriage, not for love but for money–see what I mean when I say it’s like The Materialists?           

Dolly isn’t the only character seeking marriage, Horace Vandergelder played by Stuart Marland, also a widow is seeking a wealthy wife as well, something practical. 

Meanwhile, the young lovers of the show Cornelius Hackl (Nic Rouleau), Irene Malloy (Gabrielle McClinton), Michael Hartung (Barnaby Tucker), and Minnie Fay (Halli Toland) are seeking a day of adventure, and maybe love. 

The story takes off when our protagonists leave Yonkers, New York, for one day in New York City. 

The musical is set in the late 19th century during the Women’s Suffrage movement. The time frame gave costumer Mark Koss a lot to play with when it comes to making the shows costumes. Koss’s Edwardian costumes are a display of beautiful eye candy. Every scene with the ensemble is breathtaking, a rainbow of pastels, corsetry and gorgeous hats. 

Having the musical in the round also really highlights the intelligent set design of the show and makes the musical a fun immersive experience. 

The genius of the show relies on its impeccable comedic timing, while also touching on the more serious themes of the characters. 

Ziemba’s Dolly is funny, charismatic, and endearing. She brings in both comedy and emotional gravitas. The entire cast keeps the audience constantly engaged, entertained, and invested in their character journeys and arcs. 

The love story between Zimenab’s Dolly and Marland’s Vandergelder juxtaposed Rouleau’s Nic and McClinton’s Irene play really well. 

Both come to the same conclusion, but their journeys to how they arrive there is different. 

Overall Music Circus delivered an exceptional and beautiful rendition of Hello Dolly while also keeping the heart and message of the musical. 

Hello Dolly is about love. Love lost, love found, and how money can play a role in our search for love, but doesn’t have to be the driving factor. If you’re looking for a fun weekend adventure be sure to check out Hello Dolly. 

 
Hello Dolly will be playing at Music Circus June 20-26.