"The Matchmaker," the straight-play basis for "Hello, Dolly!", is a light, hopeful examination of the American preoccupation with money and class. The play is just as much fun as the musical treatment, and the characters just as large. The farcical energy sweeps through every moment of the play, it is a classically perfect example of farce - with plenty of wonderful roles for both men and women as well. For anyone wondering if a precursor to "Hello, Dolly!" might be dated, put those fears to rest. The themes of class mobility and money are treated with heart and grace, with a moral that will resonate with any American today and likely far into the future - money must be used for good. The moralizing is gentle and loving, allowing for financial success as a moral good, but only if one is thoughtful and caring of others, especially those close to them.