Booked & Scene

Jerry Herman and Michael Stewart’s Hello, Dolly! is a cornerstone of classic musical theatre, and this Lyric Stage production, directed by Maurice Emmanuel Parent, brings a fresh shine to its vintage appeal. The story centers on Dolly Gallagher Levi, a matchmaker, a meddler, and an absolute all-around busybody who has finally decided it’s time to get her own happy ending ideally with wealthy, curmudgeonly Horace Vandergelder. What follows is a show that takes place between Yonkers and New York City full of mistaken identities, romantic detours, and enough charm to fill a hat shop.

Big Characters, Bigger Heart

Aimee Doherty as Dolly Gallagher Levi is a knockout. From the moment she steps into the aisle, she owns the space with confidence, humor, and a wink of mischief. Her comedic timing is razor-sharp, her voice strong and clear, and her presence warm and captivating. “Before the Parade Passes By” and “Hello, Dolly!” are both standout numbers that showcase not only her vocal power but also her emotional depth.

Michael Jennings Mahoney practically steals the show as Cornelius Hackl. He’s got the kind of endearing charm that makes you root for him from his first line. His physical comedy, sweet earnestness, and surprising grace in numbers like “Dancing” and “Elegance” make him a joy to watch. His chemistry with Kristian Espiritu (Irene Molloy) adds even more depth to their scenes.

Max Connor as Barnaby Tucker brings boundless energy to the stage. His scenes with Mahoney are full of delightful rhythm and timing, and his affection for a stuffed whale is oddly, hilariously touching. Joshua Wolf Coleman gives Horace Vandergelder a perfect blend of gruff exterior and comedic grumbling, playing well against every character he encounters.

In the ensemble, Joy Clark brings sparkle to smaller roles, especially as Ernestina. Jackson Jirard’s dancing is elegant and expressive, and Miki Grubic is a ball of energy in every scene he’s in. Together, the ensemble creates a stage that feels bustling and alive, pulling the audience right into Dolly’s world.

Guiding the Parade from Behind the Curtain

Director Maurice Emmanuel Parent makes excellent use of the Lyric Stage space. Entrances and exits are varied and dynamic, giving the production a sense of motion and scale. The decision to break the fourth wall early, having Dolly enter through the audience, sets the tone perfectly.

Ilyse Robbins’ choreography brings both precision and playfulness. A standout moment is the use of the ensemble to create the illusion of a train arriving and departing it is clever and totally effective. Every dance break feels thoughtfully placed and true to the era and style of the show.

Where the Glow Dimmed a Bit

Janie E. Howland’s set design has some inventive touches. The New York City map floor is a clever visual and the trapdoor entrance for Cornelius is a fun surprise. But at times, the minimalism leaves certain locations, especially the hat shop, feeling a bit underdeveloped. A bit more could have helped create more distinction between Yonkers and the city.

Lighting by Karen Perlow had its hiccups. There were moments when key performers were in partial shadow, and Dolly’s big entrance was slightly undercut by not just having a spotlight hit Dolly but also having the center sections back lights on. In a moment that should’ve framed only Dolly, many members of the audience were also illuminated. It was a small but noticeable distraction in what should have been a grand reveal.

A Joyful Jaunt Worth Catching

This is a fun, family-friendly, heart-filled production that delivers on the promise of Hello, Dolly! It’s got humor, style, and a whole lot of love packed into every scene. The cast clearly enjoys themselves, and that joy is infectious. With a talented band, charming costumes, and a lead who knows exactly how to work a crowd, this Dolly invites you to sit back, smile, and soak it all in. Don’t miss it before the curtain falls.

Hello, Dolly! is playing at Lyric Stage Boston through June 22.