In 1950, a new musical captured the hearts of Broadway theatergoers and won five Tony awards. The musical was "Guys and Dolls." From now until August 17, Barksdale Theatre is recreating that magic at the Empire Theatre.
Barksdale moved the show from its more intimate stage at Willow Lawn to the Empire stage to accommodate large dance and production numbers. The musical, one of the most successful on Broadway, has a large cast of shady but loveable characters that include gamblers Nathan Detroit, Nicely-Nicely Johnson and Sky Masterson. Add to the mix Miss Adelaide, a ditzy showgirl who has been engaged to Nathan for 14 years and Sarah Brown, a naïve Salvation Army worker who mans the Save-A-Soul Mission and you have a tale that pleases from start to finish.
The musical was so well received on Broadway that Hollywood made it into a film starring Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando and Jean Simmons. Their portrayals are engrained in the minds of anyone who saw the film, making it difficult not to form comparisons during Barksdale's production.
Director and choreographer, Patti D'Beck, has done a superb job of casting. Not only do the actors sound the part, they look the part. She's also made them larger than life by utilizing the entire stage and allowing the actors to inject their own strengths into their roles.
This production is so well put together in terms of talent that it's difficult to single out any one actor that outshines the rest of the cast. All of the lead characters have special moments that will leave you spellbound.
Jody Ashworth who plays the cool, handsome Sky Masterson has a rich voice that can send chills up the spine. His rendition of "Luck Be a Lady" beats the film version hands down.
Scott Wichmann plays Nathan Detroit with comic finesse. Even though Wichmann has the difficult task of living up to the Sinatra role, he successfully leverages his onstage skills to create a character that is equally lively and vocally on target throughout the show.
Rita Markova who plays Sarah Brown showcases the innocence of the character as well as the character's vulnerability with her acting and angelic voice.
Rachel Abrams masterfully settles into the role of Miss Adelaide with ease. Her comic timing and vocal abilities are first-rate. Abrams brings so much energy and exuberance to her character that she lights up the stage every time she sets foot on it. She especially shines in "Adelaide's Lament" and "Take Back Your Mink."
Jason Marks takes on the role of Nicely-Nicely Johnson with aplomb. When he's in a scene, he commands the stage. His rendition of "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat" is an award-winning showstopper that on opening night drew thunderous applause.
Other stand outs include Mark Persinger as Big Jule and Joel Grow as Arvide.
Lynne M. Hartman is to be commended for a lighting design that beautifully complements the fantastic cartoonlike scenic designs of Ron Keller.
Barksdale's production of "Guys and Dolls" is everything you want in a musical. It's funny, entertaining and vocally superb, a true blockbuster. Who could ask for more?
"Guys and Dolls" runs through August 17 at the Empire Theatre. Tickets range from $42 to $36 with Ukrop's, senior or student's discount. Ticket can be purchased at www.barksdalerichmond.org or by calling the box office at (804) 282-2620.