Burroughs High School’s Dramatic Association, along with the Vocal and Instrumental Music Associations, collaborated for a presentation of Guys and Dolls on February 6, 7 and 8. The popular musical showcased the obviously talented voices and polished acting chops of Burroughs High School students. In a word, the musical production was fun.
The audience laughed often at the antics of Nicely-Nicely Johnson (Sully Zack) and his buddies, eternally gambling and on the make, and Miss Adelaide (Samantha Rubin) with her continual cold. Rubin pulled off a very convincing New York accent, even in song.
Robin Mazer’s proper Sarah Brown tries to save the sinner Sky Masterson (Nick Nikoian) and winds up finding something more about herself instead. Mazer, too, impressed with her vocal range.
Directed by Drama teacher Guy Meyers, the young thespians worked convincingly on the stage and never seemed to miss a beat. The actors inhabited their roles and brought the well-known Guys And Dolls characters to life.
Powerful group harmonies in the musical numbers held the audience’s rapt attention, while solo performances impressed all around. Vocal Music head Brendan Jennings provided direction for the solo and group vocals. The show’s music was performed by a pit orchestra conducted by Instrumental Music Director Tana Barnett.
Acting chops, vocal chops, musical chops – Burroughs’ Performing Arts Department does it again, putting together another excellent musical production, their sixth such collaboration, relying on the talents of teenagers. Supported by a large team of tech staff, the sets, transitions, lights and all the elements of a professional production allowed the high schoolers to shine.
Burroughs’ Drama Association’s next performance will be in May, when the high school actors present Thornton Wilder’s Our Town. The VMA’s next show is Pop Show 35 on February 27, 28 and March 1. “LIVE! At The Burroughs Bowl” in May will be the IMA’s fifth annual outdoor ampitheatre event showcasing film and television scores.
More information on JBHS Drama, Vocal Music Association and Instrumental Music Association can be found on their websites.
