Heartland’s “Guys & Dolls” production, performed Friday and Saturday night, was entertaining! – photo courtesy Cody Farrall
Attending Heartland’s biennial musical production is always a treat, and this year was no different. The Heartland cast proved they were more than up to the task of portraying this beloved musical about gamblers, gangsters, and the women who reform them in 1950s New York.
Senior Zach Miller gave a cool, calm, and collected performance of the smooth-talking gangster Sky Masterson, making his character come alive on stage. His performance with the guys of “Luck Be A Lady” was excellent and entertaining.
Senior Isabel Johnson’s performance as Sarah Brown was well done. She struck the perfect balance between a prim missionary and a young woman discovering love. Her singing and acting were top-notch, and I especially enjoyed the comedic bar scene in Havana when she was drinking her “Cuban milkshake.”
The real scene-stealer was Sophomore Hayden Powers as Nicely Nicley Johnson. He gave a rock-solid performance, whether singing or acting, with a believable New York accent. He had full command of the difficult “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat” number accompanied by the guy’s ensemble. l
The role of Nathan Detroit was big, and Senior Sam Quiring brought a lot of energy and enthusiasm to the part. He and Adelaide (played by Emersyn Oswald) definitely had some chemistry going on, nailing both the humor and underlying issues of their relationship.
The choreography was seamless during the production, and the Hot Box Girls were fun to watch. The makeup, hair, and costumes were professional, as well as the sets, sound, and lighting, making the production authentic and polished.
Directors Lynn Hall and Lisa Kroeker hit the jackpot this weekend with “Guys & Dolls,” giving the audience a five-star performance.
Photos courtesy Joanne Haidle
