©
2005
Observer
Publishing
Co.
Washington,
PA

Date
published: Wednesday, June 29, 2005

Gamble pays off

They enjoyed the witty lyrics, the harmless
hoods and the sexy showgirls, along with all those other
ingredients that, decades ago, transformed "Guys and Dolls"
into a Broadway legend.

But what drew the heartiest laugh from
Washington Community Theatre audiences? At last Thursday
night's performance, it was an ad-libbed moment by
actor/comedian Randy Riggle. Featured as a pompous police
officer, he took his curtain call while indulging in that
great "men in blue" activity: He was munching on a doughnut.

"Guys and Dolls" became a hit for WCT despite
early rumors of lackluster ticket sales, and throughout the
busy weeklong run at Washington Community Park, appreciation
was shown for a cast that included Dennis Taylor as
crap-shooter Nathan Detroit, Jesse Warnick as crafty Sky
Masterson, Krista Kaley-Schidlmeier as the woefully unmarried
Miss Adelaide and Bob Anderson as a big-bear gambler known as
Nicely-Nicely. Director Barry Wood did a fine job in staging
the musical numbers, too, lifting spirits with "Sit Down,
You're Rockin' the Boat" and choreographing a jubilant "Luck
Be a Lady."

How did the cast, decked out in period
costumes, handle last weekend's oppressive heat and humidity?
With all smiles, of course. Troupers they are, first, last and
always, even in 90-degree misery.