Seven Things I Loved About Guys & Dolls at the Handa Opera on the Harbour

Guys & Dolls

Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend Guys & Dolls at the Handa Opera on the Harbour in Sydney, and let me tell you, it was an evening to remember. From the stunning setting to the exceptional performances and even the spectacular details, the show was an absolute delight. 

Guys & Dolls is a beloved American musical that first premiered on Broadway in 1950. The story is set in the vibrant underworld of New York City, where gamblers and showgirls navigate love and luck. The Broadway production was an immediate success, running for over 1,200 performances. In 1955, it was adapted into a film starring Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons, and Frank Sinatra, which brought the musical to an even wider audience. Sinatra’s portrayal of the charming gambler Nathan Detroit and the vibrant settings made the movie a classic. With its timeless appeal, Guys & Dolls has remained a staple of musical theater and continues to captivate audiences worldwide, both on stage and on screen.

Guys & Dolls

I’ll admit, I was initially unsure about how Guys & Dolls would translate in this year’s production, but I was pleasantly surprised by how captivating it was. There were so many standout features that made this performance truly remarkable. From the stunning setting by Sydney Harbour to the electric performances, everything came together perfectly. In fact, here are seven things I particularly loved about this year’s production, each of which added a unique and unforgettable layer to the experience.

1) The Setting: Sydney's Iconic Backdrop

Guys & Dolls

First and foremost, the setting of Guys & Dolls is truly one of the most magical aspects of the production. With the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House lighting up the background, it felt like the show was part of something bigger — the entire city was alive with energy. The setting framed the performance perfectly, with the iconic skyline serving as an inspiring backdrop for this classic Broadway musical.

2) The Music: An Orchestra Above the Stage

The music itself was absolutely fantastic. Unlike previous years, where the orchestra was hidden under the stage, this time the musicians were perched high above the rear of the stage on scaffolding. It was a brilliant choice, as it not only allowed the orchestra to be partially seen but also created a more immersive experience for the audience. The sound felt fuller, richer, and more connected to the production as a whole. The orchestra really brought the music to life, especially during the big, lively numbers.

3) The Singers: Stellar Performances from the Leads

Guys & Dolls

The lead performances were nothing short of remarkable. Adam Garcia as Sky Masterson exuded charm and elegance, his rich voice filling the theatre with every note. His rendition of "Luck Be a Lady" was a crowd favorite, capturing both the drama and energy of the song. Elise McCann as Sarah Brown was equally captivating. Her performance of "If I Were a Bell" showcased her vocal talent and emotional depth, bringing a genuine warmth to her character. Stephen Mahy as Nathan Detroit and Natalie Gamsu as Miss Adelaide were the perfect comedic pair, their duets like "Sue Me" full of humor and musical flair.

4) The Dancing: High-Energy Choreography

Guys & Dolls

The dancing was another highlight. From the sultry moves of the "Hot Box Girls" to the lively and synchronized choreography of the ensemble cast, every dance number had the audience captivated. The show really came alive during the iconic "Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat" number, where the ensemble’s precision and energy created a thrilling spectacle. The combination of sharp, high-energy moves and smooth, jazzy sequences had everyone in the audience tapping their feet and clapping along.

5) The Big Musical Numbers: Soft and Raucous in Equal Measure

Guys & Dolls

What truly impressed me was the variety in the musical numbers. From the soft, romantic ballads to the raucous, high-energy tunes, the show offered an impressive range of musical styles. Each number was expertly choreographed, and the transitions between them felt seamless. Whether it was the romantic “I’ve Never Been in Love Before” or the raucous and fun "Luck Be a Lady" and “Take Back Your Mink,” every song felt expertly delivered and gave the show the perfect balance of emotion and excitement.

6) The Large Yellow Taxi on Stage

Guys & Dolls

One of the more whimsical details I absolutely loved was the giant yellow taxi that appeared on stage. It wasn't just a prop but a playful part of the set that added a fun, larger-than-life element to the production. It’s those quirky little touches that made the show even more charming. The taxi’s presence added a sense of excitement and surprise, perfectly in line with the lively and light-hearted nature of Guys & Dolls.

7) The Fireworks: A Grand Finale

Guys & Dolls

And finally, I can’t leave out the spectacular fireworks — a truly unforgettable moment in the first half of the show. As the action built to a crescendo, a burst of color and light erupted over Sydney Harbour, lighting up the sky. The dazzling display added an extra layer of excitement and grandeur to the performance. The explosion of light perfectly matched the vibrant energy of the musical, leaving the audience in awe as the stunning fireworks mirrored the dynamic spirit of the show. It was a thrilling moment that added a real sense of spectacle to the evening.

Final Thoughts

Attending Guys & Dolls at the Handa Opera on the Harbour was truly a night to remember. From the stunning views of Sydney's iconic landmarks to the incredible performances, thrilling choreography, and unforgettable set pieces like the yellow taxi and the fireworks, the show had it all. Whether you’re a fan of musical theatre or simply looking for a magical night out in Sydney, this production is a must-see. Each of these seven features made the experience extraordinary, and I’m so glad I had the chance to be part of it.

Guys & Dolls

If you're looking for a fantastic way to spend an evening before its final performance on April 20, I highly recommend catching Guys & Dolls. This classic musical is a perfect blend of unforgettable music, vibrant characters, and a storyline that will have you hooked from start to finish. Don’t miss your chance to experience this timeless show before it’s gone – grab your tickets now and enjoy a night out at the theatre!

Web: Guys and Dolls