Appreciating all that makes America special

Guys and Dolls

Guys and Dolls, www.greatamericanthings.net

Uploaded by chicagostagereview.com.

First of all, it has some of the best names in the history of American musical theater, including Sky Masterson, Nathan Detroit, and the best of all — Nicely-Nicely Johnson. And it has the music of the wonderful Frank Loesser, including “Luck Be a Lady” and my favorite, “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat”.

Guys and Dolls, www.greatamericanthings.net

Uploaded by seattlepi.com.

The play, based on the short stories of Damon Runyon, has been hugely successful, winning the Tony Award for Best Musical. It was made into a popular film starring Frank Sinatra and Marlon Brando that earned four Oscar nods. And it’s been revived in either New York, London, or Sydney during each decade since its original Broadway run.

G&D made its debut the same year as me, but it has aged more gracefully.

It's easy to share with friends.