The long-awaited performances of the West Hartford Summer Arts Festival’s ‘Guys and Dolls’ will be shown from July 23 through 26, including a Sunday matinee. 

By Roz Green

During its exciting 50 year celebration, West Hartford Summer Arts Festival is proud to present a weekend of performances of the musical “Guys and Dolls.”

Performances are set to be held at Hall High School, 975 North Main Street, West Hartford. Remaining performances are at 7 p.m. Friday, and Saturday, July 24 and 25, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 26.

Sara Avery, English teacher and theater artist, is directing the performance this weekend, and has been working hard to prepare an unforgettable show. For Avery, this process has been incredible for her, as she has been able to see kids not only blossom in performing, but in friendships as well. “My best friends are ones I met through being a participant in this program when I was a student and it’s a joy to see that same thing happen with a new generation,” Avery said. 

Gabrielle Goldfarb (Hall Class of 2027) and Griffin Keating (Hall Class of 2025) as Miss Adelaide and Nathan Detroit in the SAF production of Guys and Dolls. Courtesy photo

While working on the production Avery also mentioned that she felt her students have learned so much in such a short amount of time. She stated that she has a wide variety of students who either want to do this just for fun, or want to pursue theater professionally, so she tried to accommodate both groups, allowing for the best experience for everyone.

“They have learned resilience and improvisation and countless other skills that theater teaches you for a successful future,” said Avery. She hopes that all of her students leave this production with a newfound sense of confidence, lasting friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the theater, regardless of where their future paths may lead. 

Charles Avery (Conard Class of 2026), left, and Ben Ursillo (Hall Class of 2027) as Nicely-Nicely Johnson and Benny Southstreet in the SAF production of Guys and Dolls. Courtesy photo

About WHSAF

The West Hartford Summer Arts Festival, widely known as “SAF,” was founded in 1977 – and is now in its 50th season. It started as a venue for West Hartford high schools and college students to perform high-caliber productions of some of Broadway’s most known musicals and plays. The program has since expanded and now included students in both middle and elementary school, in the SAF Jr. and SAF Mini programs. SAF Jr. is performing “Descendants” the musical this weekend as well. 

This program employs professional designers and directors from the greater Hartford area, who are held to high standards set forth by SAF’s founder, Haig Shahverdian. SAF prides itself on being an amazing learning experience for those interested in various aspects of theater, including singing, acting, dancing, orchestra, and technical theater.

About Guys and Dolls 

Guys and Dolls is a classic musical comedy that explores the intertwining love stories of two widely different New York couples. High-rolling gambler Sky Masterson takes a bet to date a pious mission girl, Sarah Brown, but ends up falling for her. Meanwhile, lovable rascal Nathan Detroit tries to evade both the police and marriage to Miss Adelaide, his fiancée.

Including incredible music and lyrics by Frank Loesser, and a vibrant and fun story written by Damon Runyon, this show will not be one to miss. This production explores love, luck, and unforgettable characters that will keep you captivated during the whole performance. “It’s a show that is fun for the whole family, there’s lots of laughs, and great song and dance numbers,” stated Director Avery. 

From gamblers to showgirls, each character brings humor, charm, and excitement to the stage. Full of lively dance numbers and timeless music, this Broadway classic shows that taking chances and falling in love can appear in the most unusual and unlikely place. 

Avery is very excited to share the hard-work she and her students put into this performance. “We invite anyone who has ever been involved with WHSAF over the last half-century to join us at our Alumni Night on Saturday, July 25. Check out our website for details and tickets! www.westhartfordsaf.com.”

Interested in seeing the show? Click this link to purchase tickets.

For any questions or assistance, email [email protected]. 

Courtesy image

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