One of Oklahoma Christian University’s most loved traditions during the fall semester is the annual homecoming musical. This year, the musical is the Broadway classic Guys and Dolls.
The Talon interviewed members of the executive team and one of the lead actresses to learn more about the upcoming show.
Charlotte Hamil, the director of the musical, is responsible for stage direction and character development, and she assists with set design and costume looks. She shared how the team decided on Guys and Dolls and what makes this musical special.
“Guys and Dolls is a classic Broadway comedy that’s full of laughter, memorable songs, and heart. At its core, it’s a story about unexpected connections and second chances, told in a way that leaves the audience smiling,” Hamil said. “We wanted something that would really showcase our students’ talents while giving our community a fun, familiar Broadway experience. Guys and Dolls stood out because it’s beloved, upbeat, and fits our students so well. It has stood the test of time and is making a comeback. I anticipate it to be back on Broadway within a year or two. Oklahoma Christian has also produced it three other times in the past.”
Daniel Bircher, the vocal director, helps the cast learn music prior to initial staging and choreography rehearsals. He also guides singers through vocal challenges and leads music rehearsals as needed throughout the production.
Bircher gave an overview of the plot of the story and highlighted its depth and character development.
“Guys And Dolls has a few different story lines and character arcs. In a sense, it is a story of redemption for Sky Masterson, played by Drew Hamil, who lost his way in the gambling world,” Bircher said. “Sarah Brown, played by Kacy Myers, grows in her faith, adding compassion to an already very passionate approach to saving Sinners. Nathan Detroit, played by Kedrick Gregory, and Adelaide, played by Tess Lindeman, finally get married. The story ends at a point where we could very easily see all of our main characters moving on to a more respectable future.”
Reflecting on the creative process, Bircher said he has especially enjoyed watching the cast grow into their roles.
“I love the rehearsal process, watching students grow as actors and singers. We have an amazingly talented cast,” Bircher said. “I believe this will be one of those rare shows a director looks back on and remembers as one of the best versions of a show they’ve seen and getting to be a part of making that happen brings me great joy.”
Hamil echoed this excitement and said audiences have a lot to look forward to on opening night.
“They can expect lots of laughter, toe-tapping music, and incredible performances from our students. It’s a high-energy night of live theater that celebrates both a Broadway classic and the creativity of our Oklahoma Christian community,” Hamil said. “Be prepared for some surprise appearances as well. We are so blessed to have such talented students.”
Sophomore Kacy Myers, who plays one of the leads, Sarah Brown, also shared her enthusiasm for the show and for the opportunity to perform in the musical.
“I am super excited for all the dance scenes and all the costumes,” Myers said. “There are lots of fun songs and people saying silly lines.”
Myers encourages everyone to come and join the fun.
“It’s going to be so fun,” Myers said. “You definitely don’t want to miss it.”
Guys and Dolls will be at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 6, Nov. 7 and Nov. 8. Free admission will be available to faculty and students for the first showing on Nov. 6.
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