Guys and Dolls Tickets

Based on two short stories by Damon Runyon, the show premiered on Broadway on November 24, 1950, where it ran for 1,200 performances and won the Tony Award for Best Musical. It’s currently rocking the Bridge Theatre, where it’ll celebrate its 75th anniversary next year. But who exactly are the guys and dolls in the multi award-winning show?

Who are the main characters in Guys & Dolls?

Guys & Dolls boasts a 33 strong cast, who play over 40 characters between them! The most notable characters in the show are Nathan Detroit, Miss Adelaide, Sky Masterson and Sarah Brown.  

Meet the Guys

Nathan Detroit

Nathan Detroit is a crafty but endearing gambler who runs an illegal floating craps game in New York City. He is perpetually engaged to Miss Adelaide, a nightclub singer, and has been for 14 years, much to her frustration. Nathan is constantly trying to find new locations for his craps game while avoiding the police and appeasing Adelaide's desire for marriage. His main song, "Sue Me," showcases his humorous yet sincere plea to Adelaide as she confronts him about his gambling and their long engagement. Frank Sinatra, Bob Hoskins, and Daniel Mays have all donned the famous fedora in the past, with Owain Arthur taking the lead in the current cast.  

Sky Masterson

Sky Masterson is a suave and confident high-rolling gambler known for his ability to win seemingly impossible bets. He accepts a bet from Nathan Detroit to take a "doll" of Nathan's choosing to Havana, Cuba. The "doll" turns out to be Sarah Brown, a mission worker, and despite initial challenges, Sky finds himself genuinely falling for her. His main song, "Luck Be a Lady," is a powerful plea for luck to be on his side during a crucial craps game, reflecting his desperation and growing love for Sarah. George Ioannides currently plays the role of Sky Masterson. 

Nicely-Nicely Johnson

Nicely-Nicely Johnson is a cheerful and loyal gambler, often seen as Nathan Detroit's right-hand man. Known for his optimistic outlook and love for food, Nicely-Nicely provides comic relief throughout the show. His standout moment comes in the second act, where he leads the ensemble in the rousing and memorable song, "Sit Down, You're Rockin' the Boat." A favourite in the Guys & Dolls songbook. In this number, Nicely-Nicely recounts a vivid dream in which he tries to convince a group of sceptical gamblers to reform their ways, blending humour and gospel-inspired music. Jonathan Andrew Hume currently plays the role of Nicely-Nicely Johnson. 

Benny Southstreet

Benny Southstreet is another loyal gambler and sidekick to Nathan Detroit. He often teams up with Nicely-Nicely Johnson, providing comic relief and contributing to the camaraderie among the gamblers. Benny is involved in several ensemble numbers, but he is best known for his part in the opening number "Fugue for Tinhorns," where he, Nicely-Nicely, and Rusty Charlie enthusiastically debate which horse will win a race. This song sets the tone for the musical with its fast-paced, overlapping lyrics and lively energy. Ryan Pidgen currently plays the role of Benny Southstreet. 

Arvide Abernathy

Arvide Abernathy is Sarah Brown's wise and kindly grandfather, who also serves at the Save-a-Soul Mission. A gentle and supportive figure, Arvide is concerned about Sarah's happiness and is more understanding of her feelings towards Sky Masterson than she initially realises. His main song, "More I Cannot Wish You," is a tender and heartfelt number in which he expresses his deepest wishes for Sarah's happiness and love, showcasing his warmth and paternal affection. Michael Simkins currently plays the role of Arvide Abernathy. 

Big Jule

Big Jule is an intimidating gambler from Chicago, known for his tough demeanour and ruthless streak. He arrives in New York looking for action and becomes a central figure in Nathan Detroit's high-stakes craps game. Though Big Jule does not have a solo song of his own, his presence is pivotal in the craps game scene, where his interactions with the other gamblers add tension and drama. His character is crucial in escalating the stakes for Nathan and Sky, adding to the musical's dynamic conflict. Cameron Johnson currently plays the role of Big Jule.

Luck be a lady tonight because you’re rocking the boat, and get ready to take back your mink! Guys and Dolls is a classic Broadway musical taking audiences to the beating heart of Manhattan and Havana in one evening. Follow Nathan Detroit as he searches for money to fund illegal dice games and keep his sweetheart Miss Adelaide happy. Can he raise funds, stay squeaky clean, and win a lucrative bet with infamous gambler Sky Masterson? 

Based on Damon Runyon’s short stories of Prohibition-era America, relive the Jazz Age and all its highs and lows in Guys and Dolls. And if you’re seeing Guys and Dolls at the Bridge Theatre, you can even choose standing tickets to be in the action. Discover all the Guys and Dolls musical songs and join the Save-a-Soul mission now.

The most famous Guys and Dolls songs

Frank Loesser's Guys and Dolls score transcends musical theatre due to numerous West End and Broadway revivals and a 1955 film adaptation with Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando. Listen out for 'Luck be a Lady', an upbeat jazz song performed by Sky Masterson during a crucial dice game. Nicely-Nicely Johnson leads the gospel-infused ensemble number 'Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat' that’ll get everyone on their feet. 

The 2023 London Guys and Dolls soundtrack boasts contemporary versions of the score performed by Marisha Wallace and Cedric Neal.

Guys and Dolls Act One songs

Runyonland

Welcome to New York, the city never sleeps. As Times Square comes alive, you’ll see gamblers, showgirls, and street vendors selling food and flowers from their stands. Can the pickpockets escape the policemen? They’re all trying to get by in a chaotic bustling city, and now you’re the latest to step into the Guys and Dolls world. 

Fugue for Tinhorns

It’s time to meet a trio of friendly gamblers: Benny Southstreet, Nicely-Nicely Johnson, and Rusty Charlie. Between them, they’re trading tips about different horses and who to pick for the upcoming races. In 1920s America, it’s all about getting rich quickly, and that’s what this trio try to do in a fast-paced song.

Follow the Fold

Guys & Dolls isn’t all about the high-life gamblers. There’s the Mission Band, too. As Benny, Charlie, and Nicely-Nicely shush their gambling tips, Sergeant Sarah Brown and the Mission Band play the 'Follow the Fold' hymn. Sarah’s inviting all the gamblers to the Save-a-Soul Mission to repent their sins before it’s too late. Unfortunately for the Save-a-Soul Mission, shooting crap games is a lot more interesting than a church service could ever be.

The Oldest Established

Enter Nathan Detroit, a professional gambler who’s trying to find locations for the next game. It’s proving difficult though - a tough NYPD crackdown limits the available places. Nathan mentions he’s got a potential location, but needs $1000 to secure the garage. And he’s not even got enough money to buy his 14-year fiancee, Miss Adelaide, an engagement anniversary present. So what can Nathan do? Sing about how they’re 'The Oldest Established' around, of course! 

I’ll Know

It’s time for the happy-go-lucky Nathan Detroit to meet Sky Masterson, the suave high-stakes gambler who’ll never say no to a bet. While chatting, Nathan bets Sky $1,000 that Nathan can pick a woman that Sky can’t convince to travel to Havana, Cuba, for a gambling assignment. Nathan selects Sarah Brown, the Save-a-Soul mission leader. Easy money, right? Wrong. When Sky tells Sarah he’s a gambler willing to change, Sarah’s in the palm of his hand. 'I’ll Know' sees Sarah and Sky share their views on love and destiny, with Sarah believing the right man will appear and she’ll know. Could he be here already? Time will tell. 

A Bushel and a Peck

Over at the Hot Box Club, Miss Adelaide and the Hot Box Girls perform a flirty song about what it’ll take to show someone you love them. On stage, Miss Adelaide’s performing carefree, but the second she’s off stage, her fractured reality becomes apparent. She’s lying to her family, she’s got a wedding veil stored. She can’t keep chasing a marriage that may never exist. 

Adelaide's Lament

Achoo! Achoo! Miss Adelaide’s always sneezing. A person can develop a cold if they’re frustrated at being engaged for so long. That’s what Miss Adelaide’s sharing with audiences in 'Adelaide’s Lament' a comedic look back at an adult life that needs more commitment.

Guys and Dolls

Benny and Nicely-Nicely can’t believe what they’re seeing. Sarah Brown’s falling head-over-heels for Sky Masterson, even though they live polar opposite lives. They hope Sky fails to take Sarah to Havana so Nathan can raise desperately-needed funds for the crap games. Can people stop falling in love? 

Havana

How did Sarah Brown end up in Cuba’s capital? It all happens pretty quickly: the Save-a-Soul Broadway Mission is forced to close due to low attendees, Sky promises 12 “genuine” sinners will appear at the Mission the next night, and Sky whisks Sarah to Havana. Listen to the pulsating tropical beats in Havana. It’s only a few hours away from Florida, but it feels like another world. 

If I Were a Bell

Sarah’s world turns upside down in Havana. After drinking a large dulce de leche, Sarah begins to feel tipsy on the Havana streets. Now she’s loosened up, she expresses her newfound giddy feelings for Sky. However, the feeling is mutual - happy news! They’ll head back to New York committed to each other.

My Time of Day

Back from their fleeting Caribbean trip and in the Big Apple, Sky and Sarah run into Adelaide. Adelaide’s feeling pretty good too, she’s just heading home after a Hot Box bridal shower thrown for her. Could everyone be in love? On the quiet streets, Sky and Sarah share a touching moment. 4:00am is the best time of day, because it’s just the two of them.

I've Never Been in Love Before

Sky reveals his true identity to Sarah Brown - he’s Obediah Masterson, and he’s a prolific gambler. But Sarah’s not worried, instead she confesses her unexpected feelings to her partner. All’s going well in Guys and Dolls, but is it going too well? Quite possibly. As Sarah learns the gamblers ran an illegal game in the Mission, Sarah’s convinced their trip to Havana was a ruse. Is she simply part of a plan?

Luck be a lady tonight as we’re giving you a run-down of all the players currently starring in the Guys and Dolls cast. Nick Hytner’s ground-breaking production at the Bridge Theatre has wowed audiences since it opened in March 2023. But who’s dealing out the extraordinary performances of the beloved Guys and Dolls characters today?

Who’s currently in the Guys and Dolls cast? 

Boasting both wrap-around seats and immersive promenade viewing, Guys and Dolls at the Bridge Theatre has transformed the musical experience. But the show’s impressive design and direction would be nothing if it didn’t have the right actors to make it work. Below, we’ll raise the stakes and give you all the ins and outs of the Guys and Dolls casting calls.

Owain Arthur plays wheeler dealer Nathan Detroit. Welsh actor Owain came to prominence after starring in The National Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of One Man, Two Guvnors at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. He has previously received rave reviews for his performances in The History Boys and Romeo and Juliet for the Royal Shakespeare Company and Birdsong. Outside of theatre, he’s also starred in Amazon Prime's The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power.

George Ioannides plays it cool as Sky Masterson. With credits on screen and stage, George is building a noteworthy career. He starred as Emilio Estefan in On You Feet at the Curve Leicester, London Coliseum and National Tour, and Annie at the Piccadilly Theatre and MAMMA MIA! at the Novello Theatre in the West End.

Celinde Schoenmaker stars as Sarah Brown until August 2024. Celinde made her West End debut as Fantine in Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre, before going on to play Christine in Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theatre.

Timmika Ramsay breathes life into the role of Miss Adelaide. Her previous stage roles include La Chocolat in Moulin Rouge! the Musical at the Piccadilly Theatre, and the titular role in Cinderella at the Lyric Hammersmith. She’s also appeared in TV shows; The Other One, Horrible Histories, Ghosts, and Enterprise.

Jonathan Andrew Hume gets the audience to rock the boat in the role of Nicely-Nicely Johnson. His previous credits include Come From Away at The Phoenix Theatre (which earned him a nomination for Best British Actor in a Musical at the Black British Theatre Awards), The Third Man at the Menier Chocolate Factory, and the film Mary Poppins Returns.

Ryan Pidgen plays the stooge Benny Southstreet. Before doing the dirty work, Ryan starred in One Woman Show, Matilda the Musical, Man of La Mancha, The Wind in the Willows, Showboat, Evita, and more. His film and TV work includes Matilda, Miranda, In with the Flynns, and My Family.

Niall Buggy stars as Arvide Abernathy. The veteran actor playing the veteran do-gooder has had a prolific career on stage and screen. Amongst his extensive credits are: To Kill A Mockingbird at the Gielgud Theatre, Saint Joan at the Donmar Warehouse, The Importance of Being Earnest at the Harold Pinter Theatre, The Weir at the Royal Court Theatre, and a 2005 production of Guys and Dolls in the West End.

Cameron Johnson is larger than life as Big Jule. The big-time gambler is expertly played by Cameron who trained at LAMDA. His previous work includes Everybody’s Talking About Jamie on the UK tour and in LA, Fame, Aladdin, Five Guys Named Moe, Equus, and more.

TJ Lloyd gives a sparkling performance as Rusty Charlie. TJ has also appeared in Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder! (currently playing at the Ambassador’s Theatre), Dick Whittington, Aladdin, Bananaman - The Musical, and Merrily We Roll Along.

There will be a whole new bunch of guys and dolls hoping to make their fortune at the Bridge Theatre next month! The gals and gangsters will be stepping onto the stage (and through the audience) from 28 February 2024, with the current cast, including Daniel Mays and Marisha Wallace, appearing until 24 February 2024. 

Owain Arthur (The History Boys) will be returning to the role of Nathan Detroit, having previously covered the part of the rib-tickling risk-taker last Summer. He will be joined by Timmika Ramsay (Moulin Rouge! The Musical) as Hot Box headliner, Miss Adelaide. With George Ioannides (MAMMA MIA!) and Celinde Schoenmaker (The Phantom of the Opera) completing the quibbling quartet, continuing their roles of Sky Masterson and Sarah Brown respectively.

Guys and Dolls is a modern classic that explores the lives of two seemingly mismatched couples. Nathan Detroit, a smooth-talking gambler, is desperately trying to find a venue for his latest craps game. Whilst his fiancée of 14 years, the sassy Adelaide, wants nothing more than a white picket fence and a normal life. When Sky wagers Nathan that he can woo the missionary, Sarah Brown, to join him on a trip to Havana, the stage is set for an epic Cuban adventure. 

It’s 1950 in the city that never sleeps…will you roll the dice? Check out our top 8 fun facts about the Guys and Dolls the musical (and film)!

The electrifying Owain Arthur is set to star as Nathan Detroit in Nicholas Hytner's critically acclaimed production of the legendary Guys & Dolls. 

Step inside the Bridge Theatre and be whisked away to a bygone era of colourful characters, swanky dance numbers, and unexpected twists of fate set within the bustling streets of Manhattan and the sultry bars of Havana. Book your tickets now!

The Bridge Theatre's immersive production of the beloved musical fable of Broadway, Guys & Dolls, directed by the renowned Nicholas Hytner, is now extending booking until 24 February 2024.

If you haven't had the chance to experience this spectacular show yet, now is the time to roll the dice and take a gamble! With its captivating characters, snappy dialogue and unforgettable tunes - this production of Guys & Dolls has garnered rave reviews! Book your tickets today!

If you have your eye on Twitter a lot (and if you don’t then, why not!?) then you’ve surely heard the news that the Chichester Festival Theatre revival of Guys and Dolls that ran last year will start previews at the Savoy Theatre on December 10th after Gypsy leaves the Savoy in November (also a revival that transferred from Chichester). So, to celebrate this exciting new revival, I thought I’d take you through the production history of Guys and Dolls much like what I did with Gypsy a few months back.