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'Dolls' delivers fun, action
Audiences can place a sure bet that “Guys and Dolls” will deliver all the action and entertainment they are looking for.
This latest Quincy Valley Allied Arts production is a personal favorite. The musical is packed with clever dialog and familiar songs. The entire cast did a wonderful job and seemed like they were having a great time, which made it especially fun to watch.
Based on the story and characters by Damon Runyon, with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser, “Guys and Dolls” is set in1940s New York. It is centered around some gamblers looking for some action, but the heat is on.
“Luck Be a Lady” is one of the great songs in “Guys and Dolls.” Nick Parker, a QVAA veteran who is playing gambler Sky Masterson, sang it so well he would have made “Old Blue Eyes” himself smile.
Once again, Erin Morse proved her talent for physical comedy and her vocal chops as the sweet saver of souls, Sarah Brown. Her songs “If I Were a Bell” and “Marry the Man Today” were hilarious.
Newcomer Kelsea Burton was wonderful as Miss Adelaide. Her Jersey accent was funny and her vocals on numbers like “A Bushel and a Peck,” “Take Back Your Mink,” and “Marry the Man Today” were excellent. Hopefully this Moses Laker will be part of many more QVAA productions.
Playing opposite her was Michael Kooy as the big-talking promoter, Nathan Detroit. He did a great job as a hustler under pressure from his fellow guys, his fiancée and “the heat.” His duet with Burton, “Sue Me,” was sweet.
Brian Higgins was another favorite as Nicely-Nicely Johnson. He had a great number “You’re Rockin’ the Boat.” Other fun performances came from Patric Connelly as Benny Southstreet and Sherri Kooy as Big Jule.
Randy Brooks was the running joke of the show as the unlucky tourist caught up in the big city action. The numbers featuring the ensemble were solid.
Director Eric Van Woert can congratulate himself on a job well done. He has a great cast and crew and a fun piece to work with, and that came through in the performance.
The live orchestra is part of what makes QVAA productions so special. They did a great job led by director Mike Silk. Kooy pulled double duty, also choreographing the piece. She did a nice job, allowing the cast to shine during the song and dance numbers.
“Guys and Dolls” is a lot of fun and there is still time to get in on the action. It runs February 25, 26 and 27 at 7:30 p.m. at Quincy High School’s McConnell Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $10 and are available at Duda-Hodges Insurance or at the door.
