“Guys and Dolls” rock the boat

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Damon Runyon’s beloved musical comedy “Guys and Dolls” may be set in the 1950’s, but its themes are played with timeless energy. Outstanding individual efforts, a visibly warm ensemble spirit and a very enthusiastic audience marked the troupe’s opening night.
Running Saturday nights and Sunday matinees, the Marathon Little Theatre Group, located at 245-37 60th Avenue in Douglaston (Marathon Jewish Community Center), will raise their curtain for just a few more shows through March 26 at 3:00 P.M.
The story follows lovable NYC scoundrels who endure romantic conflicts and gambling reversals with a blend of frustration and tenacity. The gritty dialogue and witty lyrics are still audience pleasers. Some favorites include “Can Do, Can Do,” “Luck Be A Lady,” “Guys and Dolls” and, of course, “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat.”
Nathan Detroit, well played by Bob Alpert, has two major tasks. First, he runs “the oldest established floating crap game in New York.” Second, he nurses a case of cold feet that freezes his fourteen-year engagement to long-suffering Miss Adelaide (Jean Ann Kump). Kump, a veteran of dozens of Queens productions, is guilty of stealing the show. Armed with a great “schtick” for a nave but worldly-wise dumb blonde she laments, “A poy-sin could da-vel-ap a cold,” and sarcastically complains, “Take back your minks!”
These rough around the edges royalty hold court with other lovable villains, including Nicely-Nicely (Arthur Levy), Benny Southstreet (Robert Kiernan) and Harry the Horse (John Baratta). Poor Lieutenant Brannigan (Gary Krigsman) is in hapless and hopeless pursuit of the high rollers.
Paul Bufano plays more polished but equally notorious Sky Masterson. He sings and acts with incredible honesty. It’s hard to believe he’s a gangster! Obviously, beautiful soul saver Sarah Brown (Nili Resnick) sees his spark of goodness as well. Fellow missionary Arvide Abernathy (Larry Bloom) and main soul saver General Cartwright (Ellen Rosenberg) acknowledge Sarah’s studied innocence and loyalty.
Other mobsters including Big Jule (Sam Zuckerman), Angie the Ox (Sherry Cohen), Joey Biltmore (Ephram Sachs) and assorted crapshooters are too disarming to fear, despite Big Jule’s ’45 in his shoulder holster.
The Hot Box Girls and Havana Dancers, led by choreographers Jenifer Badamo, Fran Geier and Sherry Markowitz, kick up their heels with a great combination of humor and class.
Director Dave Shapiro draws a smile as a tipsy tourist while producer Sandi Plotkin lets ‘em roll as one of the crapshooters. Kudos as well to the mini orchestra led by Rhea Arkin and to Set Designer Linda Cashman. The entire ensemble, too numerous to name, has offered a friendly and genuine production that defines community theatre.
Call (718) 428-1580 for more information.
The spring community theatre season is just beginning. As always, save me a seat on the aisle.