Chanhassen Dinner Theatres is betting on a classic, bringing a new production of Guys and Dolls to its main stage. Opening , the musical marks a significant moment for the theater and its newly appointed artistic director, Tamara Kangas Erickson, as her directorial debut.
The production arrives after a period of transition for Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, following the unexpected passing of longtime president and artistic director Michael Brindisi. Erickson, a longtime collaborator with Brindisi, has stepped into the role with a focus on stability and creative renewal. “We formed some close bonds in those early days,” Erickson said, reflecting on the initial period after Brindisi’s death. “And even though I had been on Michael’s creative team for so many years, my relationship with each of them was about to change, too. It was time very well spent. A lot of powerful collaboration took place, trust was formed and the ideas began to flow.”
While the theater recently showcased a string of regional premieres – including The Prom, Jersey Boys, and Beautiful – Erickson opted for a well-loved classic for this production. Guys and Dolls hasn’t been staged at Chanhassen since 1989, and this marks the first time in over 35 years the theater will present the show. Erickson explained her choice, noting the recent successful revivals of the musical in both London’s West End and at the Sydney Opera House. “I felt we needed a classic, one that hadn’t been done here in some time, and I kept coming back to Guys and Dolls,” she said.
The creative team assembled for this production is a blend of familiar faces and fresh talent. Mark King, Erickson’s longtime choreographic collaborator, serves as assistant director, while Linda Talcott Lee, a Broadway dancer and Emmy Award-winning choreographer, joins as co-choreographer. Andy Kust is the music director, with scenic design by Nayna Ramey, costume design by Rich Hamson, lighting design by Sue Ellen Berger, and sound design by Russ Haynes. Phil Gold is the production stage manager.
The cast features a mix of returning favorites and newcomers to Chanhassen. Shad Hanley reprises his role as the high-rolling Sky Masterson, a character audiences may remember from his previous performances as Nick Massie in Jersey Boys and Gerry Goffin in Beautiful. New to Chanhassen, Sara Masterson takes on the role of the earnest Sarah Brown, having recently appeared as Alison in Theatre Latte Da’s production of Fun Home. Madeline Trumble, known for her portrayal of Mary Poppins in the Broadway touring production and Elphaba in Wicked, will play the beloved Miss Adelaide. Rounding out the leads is Charlie Clark as Nathan Detroit, fresh off his performance in Come From Away at Sarasota’s Asolo Repertory.
The production promises a vibrant and energetic staging of the classic musical, set against the backdrop of 1950s New York City and Havana. The story centers on the unlikely romance between Sky Masterson and Sarah Brown, and the comedic machinations of Nathan Detroit as he tries to find a location for his illegal craps game. The plot, as one critic noted, revolves around the dated stereotype that men resist marriage and women must trick them into it, a theme that may resonate differently with contemporary audiences.
Beyond the core narrative, the production aims to deliver a visually and aurally captivating experience. Costume designer Rich Hamson’s designs feature colorful zoot suits and 1930s-era dresses, while the set design incorporates mobile elements to create a dynamic cityscape. The ten-piece band, under the direction of Andy Kust, will provide the musical backdrop for the show’s iconic songs, including “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat.”
The choreography, a collaborative effort between Erickson, King, and Talcott Lee, is expected to be a highlight of the production. The team has incorporated both large-scale dance numbers and smaller, more intimate moments to enhance the storytelling. The production also features a surprise performance area above the audience, adding a unique element to the staging.
While acknowledging the show’s dated elements, critics suggest that Guys and Dolls remains a comforting and entertaining classic, particularly well-suited to Chanhassen Dinner Theatres’ reputation for providing “comfort food” entertainment. The production runs through , offering audiences ample opportunity to experience this beloved musical.
