Cast of Guys and Dolls share favorite memories

We asked each member of the cast to share their Guys and Dolls experience with the Eagle Eye

April 28, 2015

On Friday, April 10th and Saturday, April 11th, 2015 Tyrone Area High School treated audiances to two phenomenal shows. Guys & Dolls was very successful both nights, both shows going off without a hitch. To preserve the memories of the cast, the Eagle Eye asked every member to reflect on their favorite memories and experiences from the show.

Here’s what they had to say:

The Leads

Dale Manning

The Leads

The leads of the play consisted of two separate love stories. The first is between high-roller Sky Masterson and Save-A-Soul Mission Sargent Sarah Brown. Their relationship begins as a bet but spontaneously turns real in Havana, Cuba. The other love story occurs between compulsive gambler Nathan Detroit and Hot Box Dancer Miss Adelaide, who have been engaged for 14 years while Nathan is stalls their wedding.

 

sean

 Sean McGovern – “Sky Masterson”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?  

Zac Slate eating the floor both performances and dress rehearsal.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show? 

The sewer scene because it has one of my favorite songs.

3. What are your post-show thoughts? 

My life just kind of consists of me wandering around aimlessly now.

 

hope

Hope Wilson – “Sarah Brown”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Tech Week; watching everything come together. 

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

Havana, because my character had a large change and it was fun to play up.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

This was the most talented and friendly cast I’ve ever worked with. 

 

adam

Adam Zook – “Nathan Detroit”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Whenever I proposed to Sean McGovern on stage. Best fake wedding ever.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My argument with Adelaide (Haley) at the beginning of the play. It was by far the funniest scene.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’m glad I was a part of the production. I wouldn’t trade that experience for the world.

 

IMG_6817

Haley Butina – “Miss Adelaide”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls? 

I really loved the whole experience, but the most memorable part for me was opening night, when the curtain opened. I was filled with phenomenal excitement, and I was almost brought to tears.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show? 

The Crapshooters Valet was a very cool scene, but I also really enjoyed performing “Sue Me” with Adam.

3. What are your post-show thoughts? 

The show was amazing and I’m so glad that I got the opportunity to be a part of it. I’m definitely going to miss the show, but I can’t wait to see what’s in store for the future.

The Crapshooters

Dale Manning

The Crapshooters

The crapshooters consisted of Detroit’s “workers” and other gamblers who were just looking for a place to gamble.

 

crapshooters

Mark Lewis – “Nicely-Nicely Johnson”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

When Adam Zook proposed to Sean McGovern on stage once. That was a little weird. 

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scenes were “Guys and Dolls” with my main squeeze, Jake Makdad, “Luck Be a Lady” with the amazing Sean McGovern and “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat” with the entire cast.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I am so happy that I decided to participate in the musical this year. It was one of the best experience I’ve ever had. I’d like to thank all of m friends that dragged me into it and also director Mrs. Volpe, and musical director Mrs. Harris for taking a chance on me. Also, I can’t forget to thank everyone else who sacrificed their time for the musical.

 

jake

Jake Makdad – “Benny Southwest”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

When the curtain stopped closing at the end of the show Saturday, you could see the majority of the cast. And Sean threw his hat and exploded in excitement, even though the crowd could see him. He didn’t care.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

Easily the Sewer Scene. The thing about the guys in the cast is that we were just having fun up there. I felt like we were just messing around.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

Mrs. Harris is my hero, first things first. I’ll miss the show, because we don’t have the chance to do it again.

 

conner 2

Conner Stroud – “Harry the Horse”

 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

The people. It was a great cast and I always had fun no matter what we were doing.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scene was the sewer scene. The dance was really hard to put together and it was so satisfying every time we did it. Then Sean got to do “Luck Be a Lady”, which was always amazing. I was just really pumped every time we did that scene. 

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’m so proud of what we put out there. We worked so hard for so long and I really think that it showed. We had great chemistry and a lot of talent. I think this will be remembered for a while.

 

slate

Zac Slate – “Big Jule”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Messing around backstage with my friends.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

The Crapshooters Ballet. I love wow-ing people and I think that our guys did that.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I will miss the show. If given any chance to do it one more time I would not hesitate to do so. 

kenny

 Kenny McKernan – “MC/Waiter”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Slate biffing it on opening.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

Canasta, it was fun to just run and watch Jamal get trucked by Mark every night.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

It was a great experience that I got to go through with a lot of my friends. Even though I hated going to practice, I still miss going to practice every night.

 

rhoades

 Collin Rhoades – “Drunk”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

When we all sang “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat.”

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

The sewer scene.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’ll miss it a lot.

 

shuy

 Austin Shuey

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

 My most memorable part was just becoming very close with everybody in the show, people that I never thought I would, and also bringing a story to life on stage.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show? 

The sewer scene and “Luck Be A Lady.”

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

 It was the most fun thing that I’ve done in high school and I would recommend everybody do the next one.

 

jamal

 Jamal Hicks

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

When the curtain closed at the end of the show and I saw cheering, hugging and smiles on everyone’s faces.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

Canasta. I loved coming out of those doors knowing Nicely-Nicely Johnson (Mark Lewis) would push me over and someone would drag me offstage.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I wish we would do one every year and more people would be involved!

 

tyler

 Tyler Eaken

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Working with different people throughout the high school. It made my first high school production very enjoyable.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scene was the crap game in the sewer, because the ballet was so much fun and we got to sing “Luck Be a Lady.”

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

It’s sad now that the show is all over after so much practice, but I had so much fun doing this and entertaining a crowd for two nights. I can’t wait until we do the next show.

 

dakota

 Dakota Cowfer

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

The most memorable part of Guys & Dolls was hanging out and getting to know the cast and show week, because that’s when everything came together so smoothly and felt so incredible.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scene was the Hot Box, because it was such an entertaining part of the show to hear the songs and watch the dances.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

Post show thoughts would be that it went perfectly and it was so much fun and it’s really sad to come to realize that it’s over. We worked so hard for two nights, and I just wish there was more of it.

The Hot Box Girls

Dale Manning

The Hot Box Girls

The Hot Box Girls consisted of very talented young ladies who could dance, sing, and look super cute all at the same time!

 

marlena

 Marlena Wagner – “Mimi”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

My favorite part was just spending time/having fun with all of my friends.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scene was the ending because in that moment it felt like everyone was just coming together as one entire cast and saying “this is who we are and we love it!”

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

My post show thoughts are that I am happy that I decided to participate because it was easily the best thing I have done all school year.

 

molly

 Molly Harris 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls? 

Getting to know more people.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

The Havana scene.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’m really going to miss it, but I’m excited to see what we’re going to do in the future.

gina 2

 Gina Gavazzi 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

I can’t really single out one memory from Guys and Dolls. The experience as a whole was memorable.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

It would have to be a tie between “Take Back Your Mink”, and the “Canasta!” scene. I loved dancing in “Take Back Your Mink”, and we all had to be really sassy, which was fun. But “Canasta” was really fun for me to watch. Seeing Zac Slate wipe out on stage is something you can’t compete with.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’d just like to thank the cast for making this such a fun experience, and also sow some recognition to all the people who work behind the scenes. I’m so glad we had such a successful show! To anyone considering getting involved in a musical, DO IT! You will have a blast!

 

davina

 Davina Lee

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Definitely seeing everything come together on stage and hearing the crowd’s reaction.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

I liked “Havana” because it challenged me dance-wise. I also enjoyed “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat”. It was a fun scene. 

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I was apprehensive going into this because I don’t really have singing experience and I had never been a part of a musical before. After experiencing everything, I realized how fun musicals can be. I really loved being a part of “Guys and Dolls”. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

 

sarah i

 Sarah Isenberg 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

My dress continually popping open on stage and having to hold it up in curtain call!

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

I definitely loved “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat”. It was pretty funny and I loved hitting the high C at the end of the song!

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I have post-musical depression! I keep thinking, “Oh, I have musical practice tonight!” Then I remember it’s over and I get let down.

 

lauren

 Lauren Swayne

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Spending time with the cast, and making new memories.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

The Hot Box scenes.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I want to go back!

The Mission Band

Dale Manning

The Mission Band

The Mission Band consisted of a group of pristine young ladies who all volunteered at the Save-A-Soul Mission, working with Sargent Sarah Brown to spread the word of God to the sinners throughout the city.

 

paige

Paige Umholtz – “General Matilda B. Cartwright”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Getting to know and develop friendships with people that I probably wouldn’t have talked to. Also, all the inside jokes that I have with people now that no one else will understand. 

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

Probably Act 2 Scene 5, where my character finds out that the gamblers were only at the prayer meeting because of gambling. She just thinks it’s WONDERFUL.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’m so glad that I decided to try out for the show! It’s one of those high school memories that I will never forget! I can’t rave enough about the rest of the cast and how amazing they are! Especially my hand shake buddy! Please, when the next musical comes around, if you are thinking about trying out, DO IT. You will be glad that you did!

carrie

 Carrie Vance – “Agatha”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

My favorite memory was ruling New York in the Mission Band with my friends. Also when Adam proposed to Sean during the dress rehearsal.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

My favorite scene was when I got the coffee for Arvide, Sarah, and Sky. Mostly because my tray had a cat on it and I secretly showed the crowd.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I am really glad I was a part of this musical. I made several new friends and grew closer to the ones I already had. I gained a new respect for theater. And I’m proud of the production we showed the crowd.

erin

Erin McKenna

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Making new friends and the Friday and Saturday night show

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

The crapshooter’s sewer scene.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

After my experience I will definitely be trying out for another musical!

dez

Desiree Sparks

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

The most memorable part of Guys & Dolls was after the shows each night as soon as the curtain had closed. Everyone jumped and yelled that we had done such an amazing job.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

My favorite scene of the musical was “Happy Ending”, or the finale. I liked this the most because everyone sang together in a fun way where the crowd could feel and see the smiles on the casts’ faces. 

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I have more time on my hands now but I will always be humming the songs of the show in my head.

lily

Lily Williams 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Show week. It was crazy to realize that all hard work and time we put in was finally paying off and everything was running smoothly. We couldn’t wait to perform!

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

My favorite scene was the Crapshooter’s Ballet. It was the coolest dance and definitely the most entertaining.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’m so proud of everyone for what we’ve done! It’s bittersweet though. Practice has been such a huge part of our lives, and I’m sad that it’s over. It went by too fast.

sarah d

Sarah Diller

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Dancing backstage! I hope the audience didn’t notice!

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

The Crapshooter’s Ballet.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

Because I’m moving this summer and this is my last show with Tyrone. I just have to say to the entire cast and everyone involved with the music department, thank you so much and I will miss all of you.

shania

Shania Kennedy

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

The most memorable part of Guys & Dolls was show week and the show itself. Everyone was so excited and nervous, and that made things more fun.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

My favorite scene of the musical was “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat” because it was fun and interesting to see how everyone grew as actors and singers. We all worked hard individually on our respective characters, and it was worth it when we all came together for such a unique scene. 

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I think everyone did extremely well, and I’m proud of the whole cast. All of us worked extremely hard, and that’s what made the show really great. I’m happy that it’s over, because now I have more free time and less stress. Overall though, I’m sad because a musical is unique opportunity that doesn’t come along very often for most people.. I made tons of new friends, and I’m definitely glad that I auditioned back in January.

brooke 2

Brooke Cox 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

The experience and making friendships with people you weren’t with before.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

“Luck Be a Lady”

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

Can we do it one more time? I miss it!

rae 2

Rae Bonsell

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

I believe that the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls was getting to watch the leads–Hope, Sean, Haley, Adam and Mark–develop and evolve. Watching them memorize their songs and lines and just grow with their talent is something I won’t forget being witness to.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

My favorite scene to watch develop was the Crapshooters Ballet, and “Luck Be a Lady”. My favorite scene to perform was “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat”.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

The show was a lot of fun and I really don’t regret auditioning. Everybody is so talented and fun to be around. I’m going to miss this experience.

The Teachers

Dale Manning

The Teachers

Some of the older roles were beautifully portrayed by our guest stars:  teachers at Tyrone High School.

 

funecelli

Mr. Funicelli – “Lieutenant Brannigan”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys &  Dolls?

The new brotherhood that has now been formed by the members of the cast. We have this experience and many new inside jokes that are only shared between us.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

Act 1, Scene 7, where Lt. Brannigan interrogates the crapshooters and gets Nathan and Adelaide to agree to elope.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I’m so glad I agreed to be in the musical, because of the memories taken away from the show. They will last until I am old, old, old man.

mcnitt

Mr. McNitt – “Arvide”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys &  Dolls?

Favorite incident: When Nathan Detroit slipped up in his delivery and proposed marriage to Sky Masterson.

Overall favorite memory: Spending time with and getting to know all of the students as well as Mrs. Harris, Mr. Funicelli and Mr. Feather.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

When Arvide and Sarah have their tender moment together as grandfather and granddaughter.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

Like many of us, I’m glad to get my life back but I will miss the camaraderie of the cast.  They are an amazing group of students and I’m sure I’ll never forget their energy, creativity and compassion.

feaether

Mr. Feather – “Joey Biltmore”

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys &  Dolls? 

The most memorable part of Guys & Dolls was having the chance to see the camaraderie that developed among the cast members after months of rehearsals.

2. What was your favorite scene of the show?

My favorite scene of the show was the Sewer Scene for two reasons. First, my art students spent many hours on it. It was the most elaborate set in the show. Second, I enjoyed the dance sequence and Sean’s singing of “Luck Be a Lady”.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

For many of these students it will be a memory that stands out the most among all of their high school memories.

The Ensemble

Dale Manning

The Ensemble

The ensemble filled the roles of city-dwellers, Hot Box customers, and even sailors.

 

erika

Erika Voyzey

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls? 

Show night. Going to practice 24/7.  I got to see the slow progress of the finished project. A few minutes before the curtain opened, everyone put on their game faces and all the time and effort everyone put into it really showed.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

Easily the Crapshooters Ballet followed by “Luck Be A Lady”.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

Not going to lie, I’m going to miss participating in the show. However I’m really excited to get a good night’s sleep and have some free time.

shelby

Shelby Gantt 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

The most memorable part of Guys & Dolls for me would be when we first got to try on our costumes. Seeing how excited everyone was to see what their character was actually going to look like.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scene of the show was “Adelaide’s Lament.” Haley did an amazing job on the song, and it was one of my favorite songs from the show.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

My post-show thoughts were all over the place and I was so nervous. The only thought that went through my head was “what if I fall off stage?!”

azia

Azia Barnett 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

Zac Slate accidentally falling on stage on two of the most important nights, or Jamal and Mark’s side comments.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scene had to be the Crapshooter’s Ballet. It’s not an every day occurrence that you get to see the uncoordinated male gender pull off such an intricate dance, it’s very impressive and enjoyable to watch. Not to mention, Sean always killed his song in the sewer and it just looked like everyone had a good time with it.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

Now that it’s over I am glad to have my free time back because the musical was a huge time commitment. But I’m so happy it happened, I think the cast killed it both nights. Lots of memories were made and we will cherish them forever.

reagan

Reagan Heidenthal

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

When Zac Slate ripped his pants coming offstage.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

The Crapshooters sewer scene.

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

I thought the show was amazing!

nao

Nao Fujishima 

1. What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

When the curtain closed after the curtain call, suddenly everyone screamed and yelled out and hugged each other. I know that everyone was really stressed out and exhausted before the show, but at that moment, I bet every cast member felt nothing but just happy. I know each cast member has their own background stories behind this show (and I mean not only for the show), but I thought it was such a great thing to do one thing together and share happy moments together.

2. What was your favorite scene in the show?

My favorite scene was “Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat” because most of the cast was on the stage and it’s one of the biggest numbers in this show. I had no idea what it was going to be like when the director told me that I’m going to be a “Devil”. But I think it was great However, all the cast members told me I would never be a devil haha!

3. What are your post-show thoughts?

The show was a great experience and I enjoyed every minute of it.

The Directors and Staff

Without great leadership behind the curtain and in the pit, Guys and Dolls would have never been a success.  Special thanks to Mrs. Harris and Mr. Hock for all their hard work.

Mrs. Harris – Music Director

What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

This is one of the most dedicated and friendly casts I have ever worked with.

What was your favorite scene of the show?

I enjoyed the entire production!

What are your post-show thoughts?

Both shows went great, and I can’t wait to see what lies ahead in the future! 🙂

Mr. Hock – Orchestra Member

What was the most memorable part of Guys & Dolls?

The whole thing! Playing the kit in the pit with the kids and watching them enjoy themselves!

What was your favorite scene of the show?

The Crapshooters Ballet and Luck Be a Lady — the scene in the sewer. The music was great, the singing and dancing were awesome, the scenery was excellent, and overall a fun scene.

What are your post-show thoughts?

All the students did a wonderful job. I had a lot of fun and I look forward to doing it again in the near future!

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About the Contributors
Photo of Haley Butina
Haley Butina, staff writer

Hi there, my name is Haley Butina! I’m a sophomore at Tyrone Area High School. Although I don’t do any sports, I am very involved in many other extracurricular...

Photo of Carrie Vance
Carrie Vance, Social Media Editor

Hello! My name is Carrie Vance and I am the Social Media Director for the Eagle Eye.  I am a senior at Tyrone High and this is my first year on the Eagle...