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This production hits the jackpot, delivering a high-stakes spectacle that'll have you betting on love and rooting for the underdogs.Summary
Rating
Excellent
Roll the dice and take a chance on love! Guys and Dolls, the evergreen gem of 1950s Broadway, is once again lighting up the stage at the Bridge Theatre with its recent dazzling cast change. This beloved musical, based on Damon Runyon‘s New York underbelly tales, continues to be a theatrical and musical delight. From the neon-lit streets of Times Square to the steamy nights of Havana, this production proves that when it comes to musical theatre, Guys and Dolls is still an odds-on favourite.
The plot, a whirlwind of love and gambling in Depression-era New York, follows the intertwining stories of Sarah Brown, a strait-laced missionary, Sky Masterson, a smooth-talking gambler, Nathan Detroit, the organizer of “the oldest established permanent floating crap game in New York,” and his long-suffering fiancée, Miss Adelaide.
The latest cast change brings West End star Gina Beck to the role of Sarah Brown, injecting new energy into the production. Beck’s portrayal is a delight, perfectly capturing Sarah’s journey from righteous disdain to reluctant attraction in her “enemies-to-lovers” arc with Sky Masterson (George Ioannides). Their chemistry is palpable, particularly in their duet “I’ve Never Been in Love Before” where their voices blend beautifully. Beck’s vocal prowess also shines in her duet with Miss Adelaide (Timmika Ramsay), leaving the audience wishing for more scenes between these talented performers. Another notable addition is Michael Simkins as Arvide Abernathy. Simkins brings a touching tenderness to his dialogue, and his rendition of “More I Cannot Wish You” is genuinely heartfelt, adding depth to the character’s relationship with Sarah.
The production doesn’t skimp on the classic numbers that have made Guys and Dolls a favourite. Jonathan Andrew Hume as Nicely-Nicely Johnson leads an incredibly high-energy rendition of “Sit Down, You’re Rocking the Boat” that nearly brings down the house. Timmika Ramsay‘s Miss Adelaide is a standout, particularly in her rowdy and infectious performance of “A Bushel and a Peck“. The ensemble and dancers deserve high praise throughout, their energy and precision in numbers like “Luck Be a Lady” and “Take Back Your Mink” elevate the entire show, creating a rich and dynamic backdrop for the main characters’ stories.
Director Nicholas Hytner has done an excellent job of maintaining the show’s period charm while ensuring it resonates with modern audiences. The production values are top-notch, with sets and costumes that vividly bring to life the vibrant world of Damon Runyon’s New York.
If there’s any critique to be made, it’s that the show’s relentless energy and spectacle can occasionally feel overwhelming. However, this is toned down greatly after the opening sequences, with plenty of slower, more emotional moments where the audience (and performers) have time to catch their breath.
Guys and Dolls remains a must-see for both longtime fans and newcomers to musical theatre. This cast change has breathed new life into the show, proving that even after all these years, there’s still no better theatrical bet than this classic tale of luck and love.
Book by: Jo Swerling & Abe Burrows
Music & lyrics by: Frank Loesser
Based on the story & characters by: Damon Runyon
Directed by: Nicholas Hytner
Choreography by: Arlene Phillips with James Cousins
Musical Supervision & Arrangement by: Tom Brady
Set Design by: Bunny Christie
Costume Design by: Bunny Christie & Deborah Andrews
Lighting Design by: Paule Constable
Sound Design by: Paul Arditti
Orchestration by: Charlie Rosen
Guys and Dolls plays at the Bridge Theatre until 4th January 2025. Further information and booking are available here.
