Bets are London High School’s “Guys & Dolls” will be a great show. Playing the leads are: (from left) Cassie Dencher as Miss Adelaide, James George as Nathan Detroit, Connor Osterloh as Sky Masterson, and Sarah Case as Sister Sarah.
(Posted March 9, 2015)
Show Info
London High School presents the musical, “Guys & Dolls”
Dates: March 12-14
Show time: 7 p.m. each night
Admission: $10 at the door
Special show for seniors: Senior citizens are invited to attend the cast’s dress rehearsal at 6 p.m. March 10. The show is free. Complimentary refreshments will be served at 5:30.
By Kristy Zurbrick, Madison Editor
James George played a villain in “Oklahoma!” and a gruff boss in “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.” In London High School’s upcoming production of “Guys & Dolls,” he continues with the tough-guy act as Nathan Detroit, a gambling con man
“Nathan is a quirky character. He’s a tough guy but he’s a big softy at the same time,” said the senior, who also has acted in four plays at London.
Nathan Detroit is George’s biggest part to date, and he is having fun with it—New Jersey accent and all.
“I like that I have a lot of laugh lines,” he said. “And this is my favorite accent. It makes it real easy to get into character.”
Unlike some musicals, “Guys & Dolls” features an ensemble cast, meaning there are more than one or two lead roles.
“It’s different because there are two couples, so there are multiple love interests and a bunch of storylines that collide,” George said.
The other half to George’s Detroit is Hot Box showgirl Miss Adelaide, played by senior Cassie Dencher. Senior Connor Osterloh plays high-roller Sky Masterson who, on a bet, woos Sister Sarah, head of the Save-a-Soul Mission, played by senior Sarah Case. In total, the cast numbers 27 plus crew.
“I think it’s a really fun cast. Everyone really gets into their parts,” George said. “It’s going to be a fun show with lots of laughs and great songs.” Among the well known tunes are “I’ve Never Been in Love Before,” “If I Were a Bell” and “Luck Be a Lady.”
The show is directed by new London City Schools staff member Tim Tanner, who teaches vocal music. Tanner brings with him many years of experience during which he directed 20 musicals. He chose “Guys & Dolls” for his London debut because it’s his favorite show. The students seem to have latched onto that vibe.
“The kids are really dedicated to doing the best they can. They’re having a good time,” he said.
