Hoof n' Horn presents Guys and Dolls

Set in the jazzy New York scene of the gambling age-filled with booze, cards and all sorts of sin-Guys and Dolls is renowned as a musical classic. And this spring, Duke's Hoof n' Horn production group will be bringing this award-winning musical to the campus stage.

First-time director Shaun Dozier, a junior, decided to keep true to the age and atmosphere of the original Broadway classic.

"Guys and Dolls is a timeless hit because it is a piece of pure entertainment," Dozier said. "My goal for this adaptation is for the audience to leave feeling a little lighter and fully entertained."

With a live orchestra and many seasoned actors, the production definitely captures more than a bit of New York sass. Bubbling with a personality made for New York, Adelaide, played by UNC junior Julia Swindal, is a sure favorite. From her sharp New York accent to her feisty singing, Adelaide is a bigger-than-life character that jumps off the stage. As a fitting counterpart, Nathan Detroit, played by sophomore Matthew Colabrese, is a lovable gambler whose problem with commitment-but genuine love for Adelaide-is deftly portrayed.

On the other hand, the pairing of senior Russell Hainline, as Sky Masterson, with third-year graduate student Jenny Woodruff, as Sarah Brown, seems a little off-kilter. Although both actors have exceptional voices, Woodruff's voice often overpowers Hainline's, bringing excessive attention to her singing ability rather than her character's story.

Additionally, technical difficulties keep the show from reaching its full potential. The strength and attitude of some of the songs are diluted by the at times out-of-tune and overwhelming pit orchestra accompaniment. Significant microphone problems add to the diminished sound quality, with some characters drowning out others in the harmonization that adds the spice to this musical.

Technical difficulties aside, this production is a mediocre adaptation of Frank Loesser's 1950s masterpiece and does not achieves Dozier's goal.

Guys and Dolls is playing April 5-7 and April 12-14 at 8 p.m., and April 14-15 at 2 p.m. in Reynolds Theatre (in the Bryan Center). Tickets are $7 for students.