Kutztown Area School District stages musical comedy 'Guys and Dolls'

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Kutztown Area School District presents its fall all-schools musical production of "Guys and Dolls" at the high school on Nov. 22 and 23 with a free senior citizen dinner and preview show Nov. 21.

A musical comedy set in 1950s New York City, "Guys and Doll" follows the stories of missionaries, gamblers and nightclub dancers.

"One of Broadway's most hilarious shows, 'Guys and Dolls' has been described as the perfect musical comedy" director LeAnne Zettlemoyer said in the release.

"Guys and Dolls" tells the overlapping stories of high-rolling gambler Sky Masterson, who works his charms and falls in love with Sarah Brown, a pure-at-heart urban mission worker. Characters Nathan Detroit and Miss Adelaide have been engaged for 14 years. While Miss Adelaide is a headliner at the Hot Box nightclub, Nathan is doing his best to avoid matrimony.

The musical is based on a story and characters by Damon Runyon, with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and a book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows. Familiar songs from the show include "Bushel and a Peck," "Luck Be a Lady" and "Sit Down You're Rocking the Boat."

Zettlemoyer said that one of the main themes resonating in "Guys and Dolls" is the polarization of society and how love can build bridges — good vs. evil, rich vs. poor, criminal vs. the law, Evangelist vs. sinner.

"Through the beautifully written and performed songs, the light-hearted comedic timing of the dialogue and the intricate story-telling dance moves, the characters show how we need to break through these walls of polarization in order to be truly happy," she said.

"It is my hope that as we explore these themes with the students, and show how the characters of the 1940s defeated these obstacles with love and compassion, the students will understand that these themes are timeless and can absolutely help them be successful in the world they live in today."

Kutztown's cast, crew and pit includes more than 70 students in grades 5-12. Besides the student actors, there are student pit musicians, student sound and audio technicians, student stage crew and student coordinators.

Lead roles are played by Elliot Johnson (Nicely Nicely Johnson), Vivien Setliff (Benny Southstreet), Tucker Hilliard (Nathan Detroit), Anna Stump (Sarah Brown), Joshua Bridges (Sky Masterson), Olivia Vos (Miss Adelaide), Scott Ashman (Lt. Brannigan), Jonathan Zay (Arvide Abernathy), Andrew Neuenschwander (Harry the Horse), Jack Ruhmel (Big Jule), accompanied by an ensemble and troupe of featured dancers.

"Guys and Dolls is a thrill of emotion, love and humor mixed with gambling," junior Elliot Johnson, said in the release. "Every year the shows get better and better, and I truly cannot wait for everyone to see this show, and enjoy watching it as much as we all enjoy performing it for you."

Johnson said the musical has always been a place of freedom and acceptance for him. He finds being involved in each production an unforgettable experience that allows students to put themselves out there and just have fun.

"I hope this show makes the audience laugh and have a great experience. As a cast we are all having so much fun with this show I cannot wait for everyone to see it," said Johnson.

Senior Tucker Hilliard said, "It's a fun and exciting show where only the most lucky will win, and where secrets can't be gambled away or hidden forever."

Junior Anna Stump said that musical season is genuinely her most favorite time of year.

"It gives people a sense of community; you make so many friends and you become so close while working on the show."

Senior Joshua Bridges said this show has done wonders for him.

"It has made me so many new friends and has helped me improve my acting in so many ways!"

The production is a collaboration between students, directors, parent volunteers, school administrators and other school personnel.

"It truly takes a village!" Zettlemoyer said. "However, the audience member should be so immersed in the total experience that all of those things blend into a seamless, enjoyable evening. If we've done our job correctly, the audience should think everything looks easy and carefree."

Jennifer Starkey, musical choreographer and costume designer, said it's always fun to watch the process of rehearsal to show for students that are participating for the first time.

"They keep the magic of a musical alive," she said. "I hope the show offers the audience a momentary escape from their reality and leave feeling lighter from sharing a live performance experience with the people of their community."

Cecily Ryan, musical vocal director and orchestra director, said the musical theater program at KASD provides students with a transformative experience by fostering creativity, teamwork and self-expression. It builds confidence through performances, teaches valuable skills like discipline and time management, and promotes an appreciation for a different sector of the arts.

"The bonds formed during productions often lead to lasting friendships, all while creating a fun and memorable environment that nurtures both artistic talents and personal growth," said Ryan.

"Guys and Dolls" is a vibrant musical set in New York City that intertwines the lives of gamblers, showgirls, and mission workers. The story follows the charming but roguish gambler Nathan Detroit, who struggles to find a venue for his illegal craps game while trying to keep his fiancée, Adelaide, happy. Meanwhile, he makes a bet with the slick gambler Sky Masterson, who ends up falling for the prim and proper Sarah Brown, a mission worker, said Ryan.

"With catchy songs, lively dance numbers, and a humorous take on love and luck, the musical captures the colorful essence of its characters and the bustling city around them," said Ryan.

Ryan hopes "Guys and Dolls" offers the audience a delightful escape into a world of vibrant characters and catchy melodies, inviting them to experience the charm of love, luck, and the hustle of New York City.

"Through its humor and heart, the musical encourages viewers to reflect on the unpredictability of relationships and the importance of taking risks for love," said Ryan. "Ultimately, it's about celebrating the joy of connection and the colorful tapestry of life, leaving the audience entertained and uplifted."

Other production staff and volunteers include Kati Newberry, musical coordinator; Erin Fenstermacher, musical coordinator; Karin Hoffman, stage manager; and Adam Witmer, construction and set design lead.

Shows take place Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 23 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at Kutztown High School Auditorium, 50 Trexler Ave.

For senior citizens, a free dinner and preview show will be held on Nov. 21 at 6 p.m. for the first 150 people to make reservations. For reservations, call 610-683-7361 ext. 7555.

Purchase tickets at . Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and senior citizens. Tickets are also available in the KAHS auditorium lobby one hour before each show.