Gateway Playhouse in Somers Point will hold auditions for Frank Loesser’s Tony Award-winning musical comedy “Guys and Dolls” on April 18 and 22. Anyone age 16 and older, with any theatrical background or experience, is welcome to try out for this much-adored show. No appointments are necessary; all roles are open. Phil Pallitto, artistic director of the Gateway, will direct the musical.
“Guys and Dolls” is the Tony Award-winning musical comedy by Loesser, Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows that brings the colorful world of New York City gamblers and showgirls to life. At the heart of the story is Nathan Detroit, a lovable hustler trying to find a location for his famous craps game while dodging both the law and his long-suffering fiancée, Adelaide, who has been patiently waiting 14 years to get married. Meanwhile, high-roller Sky Masterson accepts a bet that the straightlaced missionary Sarah Brown will turn him down for a date. What begins as a wager soon turns into something deeper, as Sarah is drawn into Sky’s world and he begins to reconsider his own way of life.
As the couples’ stories intertwine, the characters confront love, commitment and the risks associated with happiness. Filled with humor, romance and iconic songs, such as “Luck Be a Lady,” “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat,” “If I Were a Bell,” and “Adelaide’s Lament,” “Guys and Dolls” is a vibrant celebration of unlikely relationships, big dreams and the gamble of love.
“This show is filled with charming, dichotomous characters, from the loveable group of gamblers to the staunch, yet fair, missionary members,” said Pallitto. “We encourage performers from diverse and underrepresented communities to bring their unique voices and perspectives to this humorous and character-driven musical.”
Auditions take place at Gateway Playhouse on the following dates:
- Saturday, April 18
- 9:30 a.m.: Dance Call
- 10 a.m. to noon: Acting and Vocals
- Wednesday, April 22
- 6 p.m.: Dance Call
- 6:30-8:30: Acting and Vocals.
Those auditioning should bring a track or sheet music in the style of the show (an accompanist will be provided) to a song that best showcases their voice. Monologues will be provided and auditioners are asked to familiarize themselves with the piece in advance (found on the Gateway’s Facebook and Instagram pages). Rehearsals begin the week of April 25. Performance dates are: May 28-31, June 4-7.
Tickets for “Guys and Dolls” are on sale at GatewayByTheBay.org or at the Gateway Playhouse box office, located at 537 Bay Ave., Somers Point. For additional info, email phil@gatewaybythebay.org.
