The Ipswich Musical Theatre Company (IMTC) is gearing up to bring a slice of Broadway to the Ipswich Civic Centre with its upcoming production of “Guys and Dolls.”
This classic musical, which has captivated audiences since its Broadway debut in 1950, will open on September 7, 2024, for a strictly limited season.
“Guys and Dolls” is celebrated as one of the greatest musicals of all time, boasting a score by Frank Loesser that has become iconic in the world of musical theatre.
The production promises to deliver all the romance, drama, and excitement that has made “Guys and Dolls” a timeless favourite.
Featuring a talented cast, a live professional orchestra, and dynamic staging, IMTC’s rendition is set to be a highlight of the local arts calendar.
One of the standout roles in this production is that of Miss Adelaide, played by Kaitlyn Burton.
Miss Adelaide, a nightclub singer with a comic edge, is a character that has long been on Burton’s bucket list.
“Miss Adelaide is one of the more comical roles that I’ve had to take on. She’s such a great character—so funny and just really lovable,” Burton said.
Portraying Miss Adelaide has been both a challenge and a joy for Burton, particularly when it comes to the character’s iconic voice.
“Miss Adelaide is known for a very iconic, high-pitched, almost nasally voice,” she said.
“That is so far from my natural voice, so one of the challenges is changing my vocals in both the singing and dialogue to try and get it up there to that level where Adelaide is.”
The character’s climactic song, “Adelaide’s Lament,” is a humorous exploration of the frustrations she faces in her 14-year engagement to Nathan Detroit.
“Adelaide’s Lament is very dramatic, over the top, with sneezes and sniffles,” she said.
“It’s absolutely hilarious and just very much encompasses exactly who Adelaide is in that song.”
This production of “Guys and Dolls” is particularly special for IMTC, which has a history of bringing high-quality theatre to the Ipswich community since its founding in 2001.
Under the direction of Robbie Parkin, a seasoned professional with over four decades of experience, and with musical direction by Peter Laughton and choreography by Simon Lind, the show promises to be a must-see.
Burton, who is performing with IMTC for the first time, has been struck by the sense of community within the company.
“The camaraderie of the cast and crew is just amazing,” she said.
“That’s one thing that I think is such a standout between community theatre and professional theatre. We’re all just so happy to be there and get to come together and put on a really beautiful show.”
As the opening night approaches, excitement is building among the cast and crew.
“I’m so excited to just go out on stage and, you know, sometimes make a complete fool of myself and just show the hard work that we’ve been doing,” Burton said.
“Guys and Dolls” at the Ipswich Civic Centre is a celebration of community theatre at its finest—a show full of love, luck, and unforgettable performances.
With only a limited number of performances scheduled, audiences are encouraged to book their tickets early.
Tickets can be purchased at https://www.ipswichciviccentre.com.au/event/guys-and-dolls/
