If classic Broadway musicals with toe-tapping tunes and lively characters are your thing, then Guys and Dolls will tick all the right boxes. Often hailed as the perfect musical comedy, this production from Nottingham Operatic Society, directed by Chris Sims in his first time directing for this award winning company, doesn’t disappoint.

The show introduces us to a colourful cast of characters: Sarah Brown, the no-nonsense “mission doll” trying to save the souls of Times Square; Sky Masterson, a suave high-rolling gambler who takes her to Cuba to win a bet and ends up falling for her; Miss Adelaide, a nightclub performer plagued by a perpetual cold brought on by a 14-year engagement to the eternally scheming Nathan Detroit. Detroit, in turn, is always on the lookout for a spot for his notorious floating craps game.
Set primarily around Times Square, with scenes in the Hot Box nightclub and a memorable trip to Havana, the show brims with vibrant settings and characterful backdrops. Alongside the leads, we’re treated to a host of ‘tinhorns’ — flashy gamblers like Nicely-Nicely Johnson, Benny Southstreet, Rusty Charlie, and Harry the Horse, who swagger through the scenes with charm and humour.

The Hot Box girls add to the spectacle. The overall set design along with the colourful 1950s costumes add another layer of visual appeal — sharp suits and pearls by day, sparkles and glam by night.

Guys and Dolls is a heart-warming musical comedy centred on the two romances. It’s filled with classic tunes and old-school charm that delights from start to finish. The Nottingham Operatic Society’s outstanding vocal performances truly showcase Frank Loesser’s memorable music and lyrics.
In the lead roles, Bara Erhayiem brings smooth charm to Sky Masterson, and Rob Harrison delivers Nathan Detroit with an endearing, laugh-out-loud haplessness. Simon Theobald (Nicely-Nicely) and Owen Patten (Benny Southstreet) are particular standouts among the gamblers. All bring warmth and rich vocal tones to their roles.

Paul McPherson as Arvide Abernathy gives a lovely rendition of ‘More I Cannot Wish You’ as he consoles his granddaughter, Sarah Brown.

And it’s the male ensemble that gets to shine in some of the best crowd-pleasing numbers, including ‘Luck Be a Lady’ and the irresistibly raucous ‘Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat’, led with gusto by Theobald’s Nicely-Nicely.

On the female front, the vocal talents are equally strong. Abby Wells shines as Sarah Brown, her voice clear and expressive, while Louise Grantham-Lang’s Miss Adelaide is a delight. She masterfully balances comedy and vulnerability, delivering Adelaide’s distinctive Brooklyn twang and nasal inflections with finesse. The duet ‘Sue Me’ with Nathan Detroit is especially well-timed and a real treat for the audience.by

For me, a particular highlight was ‘Marry the Man Today’ where Sarah and Adelaide reflect on their romantic choices. They harmonise beautifully. Though the song’s sentiments might feel a bit dated against today’s standards, the duo’s performance is filled with sincerity and depth.

A special mention goes to the orchestra, led by musical director Rob Murray, for their outstanding contribution. Their playing elevates each musical number, adding to the energy and excitement of the show.

Overall, this is a fun and vibrant Guys and Dolls. Nottingham Operatic Society really knows how to put on a show. For an evening out that transports you to a lively, bygone New York, catch it at the Theatre Royal Nottingham until Saturday 2nd November.

Photography credit. Marc Brenner