This new production of Jerry Herman’s 1964 musical is like a blast of fresh air; it’s old-fashioned musical comedy made — dare one say — with class. Starring as meddling matchmaker Dolly Levi in 1890s New York, Imelda Staunton finds genuine pathos in this larger-than-life character: we genuinely care how she grieves her late husband, tries to make a new life for herself, and fights for her place in a man’s world.

The 2019 Broadway revival starring Bette Midler was an historical event: audiences went feral, many paying over $1000, with screaming standing ovations throughout the show. It was comic, but it was also cartoonish (even crass), right down to the garish production design. The planned West End transfer for this Broadway production was cancelled due to pandemic.

In this new production directed by Dominic Cooke, the design (Rae Smith) is muted, even minimal, and much more authentic to the period of big industrial change. The stage floor is made up of a series of train tracks, one of which is a literal treadmill, on which the characters chase lovers, try to transcend their class, and even join a parade. But when THAT train appears in “Put on your Sunday clothes” —— holy hell. It’s pure musical comedy ecstasy, and it’s actually an even better staging than the Broadway version.

It’s a huge, 21-piece band; the biggest in the West End. Conducted by Nicholas Skilbeck, the orchestra alone threatens to upstage the cast. Some of the numbers seem a little over-choreographed, but it’s not enough to detract from revelling in this lavish, big-budget, wholesome family show. God knows why this is only running for two months; it’s probably the best new musical in the West End this year.

Playing at the London Palladium, 6 July – 14 September 2024.