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Returning to the Stratford Festival’s Guys and Dolls, after seeing the 2017 production, I was curious to see how director and Choreographer Donna Feore would approach the material this time around. The answer, happily, is with the same trademark precision, energy, and choreographic flair that have long made her one of Stratford’s greatest assets.
Once again, she delivered a musical that is polished, playful, and packed with movement, with the men’s dance numbers still standing out as the show’s biggest highlights –though the couples’ dance number in Havana was exceptional – bright, bold and full of colour, enhanced by vibrant lighting that shifts the mood instantly from New York grit to tropical exuberance.
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Originally launched on Broadway in 1950, Guys and Dolls, returns to the the Stratford Festival mainstage running April 22 to November 1, 2026. The Theatre season has officially begun, and this year’s production is not to be missed.
Set in New York city, with part of the story shifting to Havana, Cuba, the production benefits from a set design that moves seamlessly between contrasting worlds. Eye-catching signage and clever staging evoke the bustling energy of Times Square, while a familiar grid pattern maps the city streets reminiscent of the previous production, with a few subtle updates that keep it fresh.
A playful slide, suggesting the gamblers’ underground world, adds a touch of theatrical fun. Set designer Michael Gianfrancesco and lighting designer Bonnie Beecher are to be commended for creating a world that feels both dynamic and immersive. I was lucky enough to see the 2017 production of Guys and Dolls – I liked it then, I love it more now.
The production in both years has been directed and choreographed by the incomparable Donna Feore. The recipient of the 2025 Stratford Festival Legacy Award, celebrating her 30th season at the festival.
In order to convey her vision, Feore states in the show’s playbill “The night-to-night, moment-to-moment, never-to-be-repeated reality of the interaction of band, actors, singers, and dancers creates an exhilarating and uniquely thrilling experience.” I couldn’t agree more, the thrills shine in the dance numbers. The athleticism of the male dancers in Luck be a Lady as they dance the iconic Crapshooters Ballet is heightened by the dramatic lighting. It is breathtaking as they jump, flip and fly through the air. My only concern was, will they go flying off that stage? It’s a showstopper and the reason many think this is a show focused just on the men.
You would be wrong, Jennifer Rider-Shaw shines as the ever optimistic and perennial fiancée. Her voice is strong and confident and a reason she is a Stratford Festival regular leading lady (I’ve seen her her in Spamalot, Chicago, The Rocky Horror Show and 42nd Street).
I love her New Yorker accent, high pitched voice with all the nuance that she brings to the role. All the women dancers are endearing and amusing in their rendition of A Bushel and a Peck, the costumes are playful and only add to the absurdity of it all. Hats off to costume designer Dana Osborne – those egg costumes are legendary!
The hugely talented Dan Chameroy makes a strong impression as Sky Masterson, bringing together charisma, comedic timing, and a voice that suits the role – deep, sultry and seductive. His tailored costumes reinforce the character’s polished confidence and charm. He is also in this year’s production of Something Rotten! (another – must see show at Stratford). It’s not hard to see why Feore chooses him in many shows including the memorable Frank N. Furter in The Rocky Horror Show.
Other standout performances include Steve Ross as Nicely-Nicely Johnson. A perennial favourite in many Stratford Festival productions (he plays Shylock in Something Rotten! And in 2024 he played Albin in La Cage aux Folles). His rendition of ‘Sit down, you’re rockin’ the boat‘ was so great! I really enjoy his comedic timing and always is the perfect side-kick.
As always, Donna Feore does not disappoint. I have seen enough of her productions over the years to know that a Donna Feore musical is one of Stratford’s surest bets, and this year’s Guys and Dolls is no exception. The dancing is precise, the staging is lovely, and the cohesive design – from fluid set to the vibrant lighting and character-driven costumes – enhances the overall experience. The production as a whole confirms why Feore remains such a vital part of Stratford’s artistic identity. Do not miss this show. It will have you whistling tunes when you leave the theatre.
What you need to know about Guys and Dolls
Story and Characters of Damon Runyon
Music and lyrics by Frank Loesser
Book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows
Donna Feore, Director and Choreographer
Anthony MacPherson, Associate Choreographer
Bethany Kovarik, Assistant Choreographer
Franklin Brasz, Music Director
Michael Gianfrancesco, Set Designer
Dana Osborne, Costume Designer
Bonnie Beecher, Lighting Designer
Festival Theatre
April 22 to November 1, 2026
Approximate running time:
2 hrs. 35 min., including 20 min. intermission
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