Spectacular production of Guys and Dolls at Bryanston
Bryanston School’s senior pupils brought Broadway to Blandford in December with a dazzling theatrical production of Guys & Dolls, entertaining an audience of around 2,000 people across three unforgettable nights.
With over 100 talented pupils involved in the production, including a 19-piece orchestra featuring professional musicians alongside pupils, the performance rivalled professional productions of this most celebrated musical of all time. The audience was transported to the lively streets of 1940s New York City, where gamblers, showgirls and starry-eyed lovers collided in a whirlwind of charm, wit and romance.
The performances were led by James H as Nathan Detroit, the lovable rogue running an illegal crap game and Grace M as Miss Adelaide, Nathan’s long-suffering but devoted fiancée. Toni K played Sky Masterson, the suave gambler who embarks on an unexpected romance with the strait-laced Salvation Army missionary Sarah Brown, played by Elinor G.
The high-spirited and cheery Nicely-Nicely Johnson, often on stage as Nathan’s right-hand man, was played by Xandi S. Xandi has taken a lead role in the Bryanston musical for the last three years and it was a marked moment for him and the audience as he took his last bow to a standing ovation.
Equally impressive was the ensemble cast, which brought the lively energy of New York’s streets to life. From the intricate choreography of show-stopping numbers like ‘Luck Be a Lady’ and ‘Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat’ to the powerful harmonies delivered by the chorus, the commitment and talent of pupils across the entire school shone. The production also featured exceptional dance routines, seamless set changes and professional-standard costuming, creating a truly remarkable theatrical experience.
Director of Performing Arts and Choreographer of Guys and Dolls, Vicki Green, commented:
'From start to finish, this production of Guys and Dolls, one of my favourite musicals, has been the most joyful and collaborative experience. The success of the shows are a product of the teamwork and determination from every single person involved, including our performing arts scholars. I thoroughly enjoyed working with Martin Wright as set designer, Xavier Iles as Musical Director, and of course the brilliant creative support from choreographers Katherine Stauch and Sam O’Neill. The rehearsals and creative process are just as important for me as the final product.
'With its themes of love, risk and redemption, wrapped in toe-tapping melodies and larger than life charm, the streets of New York City truly came alive here in our Coade Hall theatre celebrating the talent and creativity of our pupils.'
For the first time this year, the decision was taken to move the orchestra to a prominent position on the righthand side of the stage. Directed by Xavier Iles, the orchestra celebrated the stunning score with a brassy, full of energy showcase of musical talent.
Bryanston’s Director of Music, Xavier Iles, commented: '
Putting on a musical is always a huge team effort, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the cast, the backstage crew, and the wonderful musicians in the band for all the hours of hard work they have put into this production. It was a privilege to transport audiences into the colourful world of Guys and Dolls, and its unforgettable score.'
Bryanston’s award-winning Performing Arts department offers large scale productions, workshops and mentorship by industry professionals, weekly dance classes, year-group theatre festivals and trips to see professional productions across the country. Opportunities such as these allow pupils to develop their artistic passions and talents at the highest level.
Bryanston has long been recognised for its excellence in the Performing Arts and Music, with many pupils going on to perform professionally both on stage and television including actors, Emilia and Freddie Fox, Max Irons and Lara Cazalet, internationally recognised conductors, Mark Wigglesworth, Sir Mark Elder and John Eliot Gardiner, and opera singer and composer, Hal Cazalet.
Performing Arts and Music scholarships take place at Bryanston in January, March and November for pupils entering Year 7, 9 and 12, who show talent and enthusiasm for the Arts.
January 2025