A Timeline of Guys and Dolls on the Broadway Stage

Guys and Dolls is a beloved musical that has captivated audiences for over six decades. This article delves into the rich history of the show as it made its way through various productions on the Broadway stage. From the original 1950 production to its most recent revival in 2009, we explore the key players, performances, and milestones that defined each stage of the musical's journey.

The Original Broadway Production (1950)

George S. Kaufman, known for his wit and creativity, directed the original 1950 Broadway production of Guys and Dolls. Specializing in lyric and book, Michael Kidd provided the charm-infused choreography. The musical, based on the New York City characters created by Damon Runyon, featured a lineup that included prominent figures such as Robert Alda, father of M*A*S*H star Alan Alda, Isabel Bigley, and Sam Levine. These principal actors later portrayed their roles in a 1955 film adaptation, which featured Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons, and Frank Sinatra.

The 1965 Fifteenth Anniversary Production

The first significant revival of the musical occurred in 1965 for the fifteenth anniversary of its Broadway debut. Vivian Blaine and Sam Levene, who had originated the roles of Miss Adelaide and Nathan Detroit, reprised their roles at the Mineola Theatre in New York and the Paramus Playhouse in New Jersey. Both Blaine and Levene performed limited 24-show runs of Guys and Dolls at these theaters, preserving the magic of the original production for a new generation of fans.

1976 All-Black Broadway Revival

In 1976, Guys and Dolls took on a new dimension when a predominantly black cast brought the musical to Broadway. This all-black edition of the show debuted on July 10, 1976, at The Broadway Theatre, with significant performances by Robert Guillaume as Nathan Detroit, Norma Donaldson as Miss Adelaide, James Randolph as Sky, and Ernestine Jackson as Sister Sarah Brown. Guillaume and Jackson were highly recognized, earning Annie Beyond Awards, Tony nominations, and Drama Desk nods. Ken Page's portrayal of Nicely-Nicely won a Theatre World Award, adding another layer of recognition to this landmark production.

1992 Broadway Revival

One of the show's most successful remountings occurred in 1992, directed by Jerry Zaks. This production starred Nathan Lane as Nathan Detroit, Peter Gallagher as Sky, Faith Prince as Miss Adelaide, and Josie de Guzman as Sister Sarah Brown. The 1992 revival ran for a record 1,200 performances, surpassing the original Broadway production for the first time since its initial run. The success of this revival solidified Guys and Dolls as a beloved classic on the Broadway stage.

The 2009 Broadway Revival

The most recent and successful Broadway revival of Guys and Dolls was staged in 2009. This production, directed by Des McAnuff with musical direction by Sergio Trujillo, featured Oliver Platt as Nathan Detroit, Lauren Graham in her Broadway debut as Miss Adelaide, Craig Bierko as Sky, and Kate Jennings Grant as Sister Sarah Brown. This revival not only honored the original spirit of the musical but also introduced new characters to a newer generation of theatergoers.

The enduring legacy of Guys and Dolls is a testament to the timeless appeal of its characters, music, and story. The show's journey through various productions demonstrates its relevance and enduring popularity on the Broadway stage. Whether it's through the all-black cast of 1976, the classical line-up of 1950, or the modern performances of 2009, Guys and Dolls continues to charm and entertain audiences, solidifying its place in the annals of Broadway history.

Key Takeaways:
- Guys and Dolls has had multiple successful Broadway revivals between 1950 and 2009, each featuring notable actors and directors.
- The 1950 production starred Robert Alda, Isabel Bigley, and Sam Levine, with later film adaptations featuring Marlon Brando, Jean Simmons, and Frank Sinatra.
- Vivian Blaine and Sam Levene reprised their roles in the 1965 revival at the Mineola Theatre and Paramus Playhouse.
- In 1976, the show debuted with an all-black cast, featuring Robert Guillaume, Norma Donaldson, and Ernestine Jackson.
- The 1992 revival, directed by Jerry Zaks, starred Nathan Lane and Faith Prince and ran for a record 1,200 performances.
- The 2009 production, directed by Des McAnuff and choreographed by Sergio Trujillo, continued the rich heritage of Guys and Dolls on Broadway.