Cappies Review: JEB Stuart High School's 'Guys and Dolls'

PHOTO (from left to right): Marguerite Greer, Deema Alharthi, Naomi Bertha and Andrea Pedemonte/PHOTO by George McLennan

Cappies review by Jasmine Pierce of Saint John Paul the Great Catholic High School

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA -- One lucky roll and a beautiful doll-what else could a guy want? In the 1950s New York was hopping with activity. Between gamblers shooting crap and trying to keep a low profile, missionaries trying to reach sinners, gangsters starting a ruckus, ladies dancing around in sparkling dresses, and a mime somewhere in the middle of the chaos, the inner-cities of New York were a place to behold. JEB Stuart High School brings the madness of the city to its very stage in its production of "Guys and Dolls," written by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows.

This entertaining story follows two gambling men -- Mr. Sky Masterson and Mr. Nathan Detroit. Sky is just trying to win a wager that he can woo the young missionary Sarah Brown. During this endeavor of his, something happens that he was not expecting-he actually falls in love with the missionary. Meanwhile, Nathan is looking for a place to stage his crap game for some impatient gangsters, Nathan's task would be easier if he did not have to hide from his fiance of fourteen years, Adelaide, who is in great opposition of his crap dealings.When the lights first come up on Stuart's New York scene, the audience is immediately met with the hustle-and-bustle of New York streets. The first song, "Fugue for Tinhorns," (featuring Nicely-Nicely, Benny Southstreet, and Rusty Charlie) sets the tone for the rest of the show---humorous and full of impressive harmonies.

Comedic timing and strong vocals are a must for the classic "Guys and Dolls." Elijah Williams (Nicely-Nicely) demonstrates both beautifully. Williams had the audience laughing during every line and captivated with every song. A second notable performance was given by Mary Harrell (Miss Adelaide). Playing the sweet and bubbly fiance of Nathan, Harrell, too, had the audience in awe of her powerful voice and whimsical, humorous acting-especially during "Adelaide's Lament." John Lesko (Sky Masterson), Randie Goodie (Nathan Detroit), and Sara Zewdu (Sarah Brown) also showed off great characterization and impressive vocals throughout the show.

One of the most memorable moments of the show was when Sky (Lesko) prepared himself for a vital role in the iconic number "Luck Be A Lady." Combining Sky's vocals with the rest of the anxious gamblers, "Luck Be A Lady" did not disappoint. Another great stage moment happens when Nicely-Nicely (Williams) decides to give his testimony as a sinner, causing the entire cast to engage in the gospel-esque number "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat." The charisma of each cast member came out in this number.

Stuart's costumes blended nicely with the story line and time period. The dresses for the Hot Box dancers were especially impressive as some tore off to reveal another costume underneath. Makeup and hair were simple but appropriate. Last to be mentioned but certainly not least is Stuart's student orchestra. The orchestra playing kept the jazzy New York mood alive. A vital part of "Guys and Dolls," JEB Stuart's orchestra did the classic score of this musical complete justice.

Pulling off a comedy that demands high-belting, breath-control, clear tone, starry-eyed romances, New York accents, genuine humor, and constant high energy is a big task, and JEB Stuart pulled it off beautifully.