Antipodes Theatre Company reimagines Guys and Dolls for its 70th anniversary from August 10-19 at Chapel off Chapel in Prahran.
Embracing the ‘Musical Fable’ of the title, the show reflects the passion and politics of 2023 as it transforms Chapel off Chapel into a prohibition-era nightclub.
Artistic Director Brandon Pape says: “Guys and Dolls is a beloved musical and, like any story that has stood the test of time, we quickly realised there was an opportunity to tell this story in an exciting way that created opportunities for artists who may not traditionally have had access to this work.”
During their research, the ATC creative team immersed themselves in the 1920s – working to incorporate the energy of New York Nightlife and Queer Culture at the time into the production.
The production will also feature live music and a bandstand on the stage, with Green Room Award winner Jonathan Homsey exploring and incorporating waacking into the world; a form of dance that originated from gay clubs in 1970s California through the African American and Latino population, taking its cues from the poses and body language of the movie stars of yesteryear.
Based on the short stories of Damon Runyon, featuring classic songs like Luck Be a Lady, Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat and Adelaide’s Lament, Guys and Dolls is directed by Trudy Dunn and Brandon Pape, with musical direction by David Butler, movement direction by Jonathan Homsey and choreography by Carolyn Ooi.
Performance Details: August 10 – 19
Venue: Chapel Off Chapel, 12 Little Chapel St., Prahran
Bookings: www.antipodestheatre.com

Pictured: Willow Sizer and Javon King in Guys and Dolls
Photo: Cameron Grant