Booked & Scene

Jerry Herman’s beloved musical comedy Hello, Dolly! follows the ever-charming matchmaker Dolly Gallagher Levi as she sets out to help others (meddles) find love while quietly finding her own way back to happiness. Directed by Maggie Burrows with Music Direction by Matt Deitchman, this Ogunquit Playhouse production is a dazzling show filled with romance, comedy, and classic musical theatre magic.

Before the Parade Passes By, Beth Takes Over

Beth Leavel as Dolly Gallagher Levi was absolutely, positively incredible. From the moment she stepped onstage, it was almost impossible to take your eyes off of her. She has that rare kind of stage presence where she completely captivates the room, drawing the audience in and making you hang on to every single word.

While every moment of Beth’s performance was flawless, there were a few standouts that truly stopped the show. The title number, “Hello, Dolly!” rightfully earned a standing ovation and was everything you hope that iconic moment will be. Her moments at the dining table during the court scene were comedic perfection, and of course, “So Long, Dearie” was an absolute masterclass.

Beth doesn’t just play Dolly, she owns her. She brings the humor, heart, and vulnerability of this character to life in a way that feels effortless. Watching her command the stage is a reminder of why certain performers are simply stars.

It Only Takes a Moment (To Fall for This Cast)

Adam Heller as Horace Vandergelder was hysterical and the perfect opposite to Beth Leavel’s Dolly. His comedic timing was impeccable, and the chemistry between him and Beth was such a joy to watch. I particularly loved “It Takes a Woman” and his interactions with Cornelius Hackl (Matt Doyle) and Barnaby Tucker (Davey Fried).

Ruthie Ann Miles as Irene Molloy was absolutely divine. Her “Ribbons Down My Back” was breathtaking and beautifully showcased her vocals, while her duet “It Only Takes a Moment” with Matt Doyle was truly wonderful. Their voices together were pure magic and their chemistry undeniable.

Matt Doyle as Cornelius Hackl was sublime. He fully embodied the role and looked like he was having the time of his life onstage, which made his performance even more infectious. His connection with the entire cast was great, and seeing him alongside Davey Fried’s Barnaby Tucker was a delight.

Together, these four leads completely commanded the stage. The chemistry, comedic rhythm, and charm they brought to the production made every moment feel alive.

Elegance, Ernestina & Everything In Between

Susana Cordón as Minnie Fay was utterly hysterical. The infamous hat shop scene leading into “Motherhood March” was a highlight, and her “Elegance” with Ruthie Ann Miles, Matt Doyle, and Davey Fried was such a lively opening to the second act.

Jessica Sheridan as Ernestina was a complete hoot and had the audience cracking up every time she appeared. Brett Pederson as the Judge and Joanna Carpenter as Court Clerk were also terrific, adding so much energy and humor to the court scene.

I also have to give a shoutout to Aaron Robinson. I’ve now seen him in two different Ogunquit productions and he continues to shine in his smaller roles. What I love about Aaron’s performances is that he never steals focus, but somehow your eye always finds him. His work as the train conductor was fantastic, and he helps create that full, bustling stage picture that makes a production feel complete.

A Dolly That Knows Exactly What It’s Doing

Honestly, just about every aspect of this production worked for me. Without spoiling every magical surprise packed into this show, there are a few things that deserve their flowers.

The scenic design by David L. Arsenault: breathtaking. Between the turntable, Vandergelder’s shop, and the train (I mean… WOW, the train!!!), the world of this production felt incredibly rich and theatrical. It was the kind of design that makes you want to just sit there and admire every detail.

The choreography by William Carlos Angulo was another major highlight. There is so much dancing in this show, and the company absolutely delivered. The choreography was executed beautifully, and the ensemble brings the entire production to life.

Above all, Maggie Burrows’ direction deserves so much praise. This was one of the cleanest, most polished, and strongest productions I’ve seen at Ogunquit Playhouse. From the staging, to the pacing, to the relationships between the characters, every piece came together beautifully.

This production is an absolute knockout.

A Few Bumps on the Way to Yonkers

There is very little that didn’t work for me, but a few small moments stood out. The curtains in the Harmonia Gardens restaurant scenes didn’t always open and close seamlessly, which occasionally interrupted the flow as they caught and slowed down transitions. The mirror in the hat shop also created some unfortunate lighting reflections that landed directly in audience members’ eyes, including mine, proving to be distracting. There were also a few very minor technical issues during opening night, but nothing that took away from the overall experience and I’m sure will be ironed out as the run continues.

Before You Say So Long, Dearie…

This production of Hello, Dolly! is absolutely magnificent. Beth Leavel leads this cast with ease, and the entire production shines. From the stunning harmonies and out-of-this-world vocals, to the incredible choreography, hilarious comedy, and genuinely touching moments, this show is exactly what I love about musical theater. 

If you’re looking for a day trip to Maine, this Dolly is one you do not want to miss. Put on your Sunday clothes and get yourself to Ogunquit. Hello, Dolly! runs at Ogunquit Playhouse through July 18, 2026.