Starting Thursday, April 26 at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium, 7 Ages will be presenting Guys and Dolls, often called the “perfect musical.”

Guys and Dolls hit Broadway in 1950 and was an immediate sensation. Based on Damon Runyon's stories about the colourful characters in the theatre district of Manhattan, the play features book, music, and lyrics by Frank Loesser. It tells the story of two couples, gambler Sky Masterton and mission worker Sgt. Sarah Brown, as well as gambler Nathan Detroit and nightclub singer/dancer Miss Adelaide, who have been engaged for 14 years. Add a cast of gamblers and dancers, throw in a trip to Havana, Cuba, and you have a colourful show.

The music has become iconic with songs such as “Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat”, “If I were a Bell”, “Luck Be a Lady”, “Adelaide's Lament”, and the title song, “Guys and Dolls.” It's sure to leave you smiling and singing as you leave the theatre.

Director George Buri has ordered professional costumes and backdrops to enhance the show. A live orchestra directed by Brent Campbell will accompany the singers. Choreographer Linda Kearns has created some amazing choreography, while Naomi Forman has been coaching the talented young singers.

“The men's chorus is proving to be very strong,” says Forman, who teaches singing at Brandon University.

“They have been hard at work, perfecting not only their singing voices but also the crazy New York (“Nu Yowk”!) accent that gives the show such character”.

Jeremy Lancaster, who plays Nathan Detroit on Thursday and Saturday, calls the show “one of the most entertaining shows I've ever had the pleasure to be part of.”
He adds, “It's silly, fun, but absolutely endearing.”

Andrew Mok plays Nathan on Friday and Sunday.

He says, “I couldn't sign up fast enough when George announced he was producing this musical. Not only am I happy to share the enthusiasm with fellow cast members during each rehearsal, but I'm definitely impressed by the talents they offer.”

The show runs Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, April 26 to 28 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 29 at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at the WMCA box office in person, on-line, or by calling 728-9510.