Guys and Dolls Excels
By Cate Rees-Hessel
Music Theater Works’ production of the classic “Guys and Dolls” is an upbeat and fun show. The set design by Ben Lipinski is completely charming – the moment you walk into the house you are in mid-century modern New York City. Neon signs to the right and left of the stage realistically advertise Mindy’s, Times Square, Bar Fedora, The Hot Box, and an actual well known Broadway theater. Onstage is D’Agostinos and the plot staple mission with a sign reminding us that “Jesus Saves”, just to the side of the door and realistically angled to greet the sinners coming to visit the church, where much of the action takes place. Inside the mission a period perfect floral drape and lone bench show the simplicity of the prayer space – a simple Bible on the pulpit is completely appropriate.
The exterior features a brick garage complete with a “No Parking” sign, and an archway leading to The Hot Box itself. I love the art deco fan stands on the upper level of the stage in the bandstand area – so very reminiscent of the big band era. The scale of the buildings are smaller than the scale of the performers, giving the talented cast the focus, and a Big Apple backdrop is exquisitely displayed. The infamous crap game in the city sewer has moveable set piece tunnel parts that, although I have never seen the inner workings of a sewer, had me convinced the gamblers were shooting craps under the ground. Equally enchanting were the palm trees gracing the Havana Bar scene. I have seen many productions of this musical, and this set is the most innovative and inviting, simply phenomenal; every part of the scenery fit perfectly.
My very favorite part of the scenic design, however, is The Hot Box interior; a fruit and vegetable stand in the first act is adorable and functional. The first number after intermission features a group of seamstress mannequins draped with elegant costumes, including exquisite black and white wide brim hats. Both of these scenic pieces coordinated well with the fabulous costumes by Bob Kuhn. I loved the glamorous ensembles, as well as the mission outfits which are absolutely wonderful – very crisp, neat uniforms that are very believable. Well-designed stage lighting adds to the theatrical magic of this energetic show.
Musical numbers are lively and well-coordinated, with the very adept onstage orchestra. In the title roles of Sky and Sarah are Jeffrey Charles and Cecilia Iole, most respectively. Mr. Charles is one of the best onstage Masterson’s I have witnessed to date – he is a fabulous actor with a rich baritone voice. Ms. Iole is lovely – her vocals are operatic quality and tremendous. Nathan Detroit is brought to life by the extremely talented Callan Roberts – his comic timing is impeccable. Adelaide is played by the energetic and spunky Kristin Brintnall – she is pretty and perky with a great voice and wonderful dance moves. Cary Lovett as Nicely-Nicely Johnson does a tremendous job of not overplaying his character – he is believable and exuberant. David Geinosky, portraying Benny Southstreet, gives a very notable turn as the almost loveable gangster. I really enjoyed the performances of The Hot Box employees including a put-upon prop and costume master, and a very enthusiastic master of ceremonies.
Musical Theater Works’ actors break the fourth wall with professional ease, bringing the action into the aisles. The ladies of The Hot Box give great performances, as do the overworked and under appreciated mission workers, especially the elder father figure Arvide Abernathy (Bob Sanders). I was extremely impressed with the fact that this theatrical work kept the show genuine to the Damon Runyon style. It is a pleasure to see this well-done production. “Guys and Dolls” is only in town until March 30th, so don’t miss the chance to see this wonderful musical – kindly proceed with haste to www.musictheaterworks.com for tickets or more information.
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