This November, the Voorheesville Middle School Drama Club proudly presents the musical comedy “Guys and Dolls Jr.!” The show will be performed at the Lydia C. Tobler Performing Arts Center on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 22 and 23, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 24, at 2 p.m. “Guys and Dolls Jr.” follows gambler Nathan Detroit as he schemes to set up a game while navigating his long engagement with Adelaide. Fellow gambler Sky Masterson unexpectedly finds himself falling for straight-laced Sarah Brown.
Middle school students make up the cast. They began work on the production in September, starting with some research.
“Mr. Steve had us write our own character stories. Mine (Arvide Abernathy) is a former addict and “World War II vet,” said eighth-grade student C.J. “I love being in the drama club. It’s a break; it’s fresh, and it’s new!”
Natalie R., also in eighth grade, plays Adelaide. She says she loves being a part of the productions and notes that theater skills will help her in the future.
“Theater is a very eye-opening experience,” she stated. “It gives you improv skills that you can use anywhere, including when you are being interviewed for a job.”
The production of “Guys and Dolls Jr.” benefits from the work of many volunteers, including seven high school students working as directors and crew members. Sophomore Paige R. has been involved in productions since elementary school.
“For this show, I work on audio, soundboard and mics,” she said. “ I love being able to help middle school kids have a great experience.”
Sophomore Ainsley S. shares some director duties.
“I always loved being in shows, but I wanted to step back and see what it was like to be on the other side of things,” she explained. “I’ve learned about the work that goes into a production that you don’t always see when you are in the show.”
In addition to directing and performing, students are involved in lighting, set design, and other important tasks.
The show is led by director Steve Suriano and producers Desiree Chappelle and Heidi Vriniotis. Musical direction is by Christy Beauregard and choreography by Francesca Soldevere.
Pre-sale tickets are available through MySchoolBucks until Nov. 20.
Adults: $12
Students: $6
Seniors: Free
Tickets will also be available at the door, payable by cash or check.
“Guys and Dolls Jr.” is based on a story and characters by Damon Runyon, with music and lyrics by Frank Lesser. The book is by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows. The show is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.