www.nederlander.com Maurice Hines and company perform "Luck Be A
Lady" in the musical "Guys and Dolls" at the Wilshire Theatre.
By Sophia Whang
Daily Bruin Senior Staff
A stage is once again transformed into a sinful city full of
lights and song, for the 50th year in a row.
Maurice Hines, the musical sensation, and his posse magically
become the “Guys and Dolls” who have been entertaining
audiences on Broadway for half a century. As part of their 50-city
national tour, the company is going to be at the Wilshire Theatre
until April 28.
The limited two-week run will disappoint those who will miss out
on the delightful characters and harmonies presented in this
production, along with flashy scenes reflective of the New York
City nightlife.
The musical comedy takes place in a tempting world full of Times
Square gamblers who favor their cards more than their dolls. Hines
plays Nathan Detroit, the mastermind of tweaked craps games, who
tries to swindle another $1,000 to continue his games and pay for a
long-stalled marriage to his fiancee of 14 years. Meanwhile, fellow
gambler Sky Masterson (Brian Sutherland) bets Nathan that he can
convince any woman to accompany him to Havana. This woman happens
to be Sergeant Sarah Brown from The Salvation Army, who leads a
mission to save the souls of men like him.
While the amusing plot has not changed throughout the years, the
costumes, props and lines vary from those of the original
production. The actors also give their own creative interpretation
to the musical numbers, providing an unexpected treat for fans.
Alexandra Foucard (Miss Adelaide) is truly a doll, matching her
stage character with a perfectly annoying voice and pitiful
squeals. Her persona lights up the stage in a way the other
talented actors could not.
Clent Bowers (Nicely-Nicely Johnson) also creates additional
amusement with his comical character and unique voice, and
Sutherland has a devastating charm that can make audience members
swoon. Hines ignites the stage with his amazing turns and graceful
moves, and his voice leads the sweet harmony created by the
ensemble of his fellow guys.
The set adds to the jazzy aura of the musical ““ the neon
lights and beaming signs will easily excite viewers. The most
memorable backdrop is one of a starry night complete with a full
moon, glowing in the dark theater and illuminating the stage.
Although this version of the production may not differ greatly
from others, the actors cleverly communicate the entertaining
changes made by the creative guidance of the director and producer,
that are completely worthy of the time and money spent on the
show.
THEATRE: “Guys and Dolls” will be
playing until April 28 at the Wilshire Theatre located at 8440
Wilshire Blvd. in Beverly Hills. Performances are Tuesdays through
Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2
p.m. and 7:30 p.m. To purchase tickets, call (213) 365-3500 or
(714) 740-7878.