Based on Thornton Wilder’s 1938 farce ‘The Merchant of Yonkers’, later revised in 1954 as ‘The Matchmaker’, this iconic stage musical tells the tale of widow and matchmaker, Dolly Gallagher Levi (magnificently performed by Donna Dougherty) as she sets her determined sights on snagging Horace Vandergelder (smartly portrayed by Tom Covello), a miserly unmarried “half a millionaire” for herself, while going through the motions of fixing him up with other women, who, for some reason, conveniently miss the target, disappointing Horace. Indefatigable, Dolly assuredly knows what is best for the many folks she helps, and is so much fun to see in action.
PCS Theater proudly presents the beloved musical “Hello, Dolly!” running Dec. 19, 2025 through Jan. 4, 2026. Donna Dougherty (center) plays Dolly. Photo by Ray Crozier
Loaded with dynamic dance numbers (Patrick Murray, Choreographer), some of which have exuberant dancers literally leap from the stage during “The Waiter’s Gallop”, makes this show such a treat, and the spectacular signature number “Hello Dolly” serves up like a rich theatrical desert at the ‘Harmony Gardens’. Vandergelder’s shop assistants, Barnaby Tucker (Jack McDonnell) and Cornelius Hackl (Robert Correas-Rivera)cklH, along with Mrs. Irene Mallory (Sammi Kuhl) and her millinery shop assistant, Minnie Faye (Jane Haracz) absolutely shine in their roles, occasionally interspersing a delightful dollop of humor and verve, particularly during the delightful number “Elegance”. Characters Rudolph Reisenweber (go Casey Lynch!) and adorable Mrs. Rose (multi-talented Julie Zaffarano) add sparkle and zest along with a large, talented and amazingly well coordinated ensemble.
Scene changes were swift and entertaining. Kudos to props (Denise Kolodziej, Jaime Taylor and Ray Crozier) for the glorious detail throughout each scene, notably the millinery shop replete with elegantly designed hats (Renée Perri) draped with faux flowers, flowing feathers and more, set upon lace tablecloths. Enchanting, late 19th century period costumes (Betsy Berwick, Claire Ennis, Reba Ferdman, Dot Kowal) in a variety of fabric and colors grace the cleverly designed set (Patrick Murray, George Mulford), augmented by sensationally designed lighting (Jack Janovsky) which provided further character to a show chock full of razzle dazzle.
From the rollicking “Overture” to the “Finale Ultimo”, PCS’ vibrant ‘Hello, Dolly!’ is a wonderful way to brighten the holiday season!
HELLO, DOLLY!
Book by Michael Stewart; Music and Lyrics by Jerry Herman; Based on the play ‘The Matchmaker’ by Thornton Wilder
Directed by: Patrick Murray
Remaining shows run to January 4th, 2026
Shows start at 7:30 PM, with matinees at 2 PM. Special matinees on 12/29 and 12/30
Approximate run time – 2 ½ hours with 15 minute intermission
Tickets can be online purchased at https://ci.ovationtix.com/117/production/1238809
or by calling 610-328-4271, or in person at Players Club of Swarthmore,
614 Fairview Road, Swarthmore, PA 19081.