March 7, 2025There is a lot to love about this year's upcoming Drama Club performance of “Guys and Dolls.”
First performed on Broadway on November 24, 1950, “Guys and Dolls” is a musical that blends romance and gambling, bringing energy and excitement to the stage. Middle schoolers Jaelise Fitzpatrick, a 5th grade student, and Bralyn Pires, a 6th grade student, are new members of the GLCPS Drama Club. Jaelise said theater has always been a passion for her, inspiring her to try out for a part this year. She plays the character of a Hot Box Girl, one of the show's dancing entertainers. For her, drama has helped her grow both as a person and a performer. “It helped me with my acting skills and I feel like it will help me with all the people,” she shared. Bralyn, on the other hand, has had prior experience on the stage. She takes on two roles, a gambler and a doll. Her experience so far has been enjoyable, and she's eager to continue. “I want to do it next year, too,” she said.
As excited as they are about performing, they are also nervous. One reason for their anxiety is anticipating the behavior of the audience. Both voiced concern over audience members shouting out performer’s names, talking, and generally being distracting. Both Bralyn and Jaelise explained how this affects the cast. “It would probably make us mess up, especially when people are being loud. It could distract us,” Jaelise emphasized. “I hope the audience will be respectful,” added Bralyn. Both say, however, that their excitement outshines any anxiety they may have and that they hope the performance is as special to the audience as it is to them.
Performances of “Guys and Dolls” are Thursday, March 13th and Friday, March 14th at 7 PM; and March 15th at 2:00 PM.
Kyle Keough is a senior at GLCPS. As part of his senior internship program, he is writing news articles for and about the GLCPS community.
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