Stepping into the Spotlight: My Debut as Benny Southstreet in Guys and Dolls

Rehearsal Period: October 2016 - February 2017

Performance Dates: 20th - 23rd February 2017

Role: Benny Southstreet

Company: Heles School Performing Arts Plymouth

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As an aspiring actor, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to audition for the classic musical, Guys and Dolls. I chose to showcase my talent with "Adelaide's Lament" and despite initial nerves, once I began performing, I was able to fully embrace the moment and revel in the experience.

To my delight, I was awarded a male role, Benny Southstreet, which I knew would present a new and exciting challenge. Benny's character was particularly fitting for my theatrical debut as he played a prominent role in many of the ensemble numbers, possessed his own duet and trio songs, and offered a much-needed comedic relief to some of the more serious scenes.

Playing Benny offered me immense creative freedom, allowing me to fully embody the character and explore his comedic potential as a member of a comedic duo with Nicely-Nicely Johnson. As the more intelligent half of the duo, I was able to balance Benny's clever wit with a touch of lighthearted foolishness that never failed to entertain the audience. Our characters acted as undercover spies, injecting unexpected hilarity into various scenes.

My experience playing Benny in Guys and Dolls was nothing short of incredible. My favorite aspect of the role was performing the dance routine while singing "Guys and Dolls" alongside the talented Kelly Armstrong, who portrayed Nicely-Nicely Johnson.