EASTHAMPTON — Easthampton’s theater scene is about to get a little louder, a little flashier — and a whole lot more musical. Easthampton Theater Company is taking a leap into Broadway territory with its first-ever musical production: the timeless classic “Guys and Dolls.”
Performances will take place at the Williston Theater in Easthampton on June 21, 27, and 28 at 7:30 p.m. and on June 22 and 29 at 2 p.m.
Eva Husson-Stockhamer, director and choreographer, shared that this is her favorite musical to direct, and it’s suitable for the whole family.
“I’ve done it several times. I love the message and characters. I thought it would be a good fit for us,” said Husson-Stockhamer.
While “Guys and Dolls” is their first musical, it is the Easthampton Theater Company’s fifth production after it was first established in 2022. Producer Michael Budnick said: “For our first musical, we did a rom-com. We did something that was pure fun, something that everyone can relate to. It’s a real reach out and a love letter to the community.”
Husson-Stockhamer expressed that, although she has directed this play before, every cast is different. “This cast has a wonderful camaraderie that I love to see. I see the men are getting their haircuts together; the Hot Box girls have all gone out together,” she said.
Cast member Evan Garber, who plays Nathan Detroit, is no stranger to this play. “Guys and Dolls” was one of the first musicals he acted in over a decade ago. He played Angie the Ox when he performed with the Westfield Theatre Group.
“It’s cool because the person whom I look up to is like a mentor and a pillar of the Western Mass community theater scene. He played Nathan Detroit in that 2013 production. It’s kind of a full-circle moment for me to play that character,” said Garber.
Madeleine Oldenberg, who plays Sarah Brown, added that while it might seem obvious, she encourages people to see the show.
“The music is great, we love a live orchestra, it gets everyone going. I encourage people to take some time and come out and see it. We only have five shows, and the cast is filled with a lot of talent,” she said.
“Guys and Dolls,” directed by Husson-Stockhamer and produced by Budnick, with musical direction by Debi Salli, stage management by Victoria DeCosmo, and a cast and crew full of regional talent, Easthampton Theater Company’s production, will only be staged for two weekends. Tickets are available in advance online on the Easthampton Theater Company’s website.
