FHU's "Guys and Dolls" to Open Homecoming Weekend

Bob Fosse, an American actor, dancer and director, regarded it as “the greatest American musical ever written.” The musical “Guys and Dolls” is sure to please as students, faculty and alumni come together Nov. 11-12 for Freed-Hardeman University’s Homecoming 2011. The play, described as a “musical fable on Broadway,” is based on a story by Damon Runyon. Known for its memorable characters, songs and chorography, “Guys and Dolls” paints a picture of life in mythical New York City.

“Guys and Dolls” features a large cast of conmen, entertainers and do-gooders. The leads of the play, which are shared by both students and faculty, include Riley Bowers as Sky Masterson, Alaina Smith as Adelaide, Dr. Gary McKnight as Nicely-Nicely Johnson, Melanie Lambert-Wheat as Sarah Brown and Dennis Guinn as Nathan Detroit. The cast and crew have spent eight weeks putting the musical together, practicing almost every day except Sundays.

Dr. Cliff Thompson, FHU director of theatre, believes that “Guys and Dolls” is a change of pace for FHU theatre, stating that “the last half-decade we’ve been doing more contemporary musicals. ‘Guys and Dolls’ is different in that it’s not radical or cutting-edge. It’s a very entertaining, classic American musical.” Thompson adds that people will especially enjoy the choreography, and “Guys and Dolls” has songs that people know, like “A Bushel and a Peck” and “Luck Be a Lady.”

“Guys and Dolls” will be presented Nov. 10-12 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 12 at 2 p.m. in Loyd Auditorium. Tickets are $12 for general admission and $3 for FHU students. To purchase tickets, visit FHUTickets.com or contact the theatre office at 731-989-6938.