Sally Struthers charms as Dolly in Sarasota

   "Hello, Dolly!" is a great musical, and Sally Struthers is a hoot in the lead role.
   Struthers is heading the touring production that stopped at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall in Sarasota for two shows. The last one's this evening (Wednesday, Dec. 4) at 8 p.m.
   The cast is strong (Tuesday's performance has several understudies, so theoretically Wednesday's cast should be even better), with especially impressive acting and amazing dancr moves. They all had good, solid voices -- though none of the vocal work was truly exceptional -- and a lot of the dance moves were astounding. The pit orchestra's great and the costumes are gorgeous.
   Struthers sings OK -- though she certainly won't make you forget Barbra Streisand's performance in the film -- and she's disarming in her role. But she's at her funniest in a few scenes where she improvises and even interacts with the audience.

Struthers in "Hello, Dolly!"

   The production's only real weaknesses come in the set and lighting design. There are a couple of attractive sets, but most of them are cheap-looking and obviously designed for much smaller stages. And the lighting too often gives the show a day-glo look.
   People don't go to see musicals for the sets and the lighting, though. All those great Jerry Herman songs, plus some funny moments from Struthers and the rest of the cast, make this show well worth seeing.
   Van Wezel is at 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.Tickets are $35-$70.  Call 941-953-3368 or go to www.vanwezel.org.