Clemson Players' productions of 'Guys and Dolls' bring people together

Published: February 23, 2012

The Clemson Players present "Guys and Dolls" Feb. 29-March 4. image by: Clemson University

CLEMSON — Love often develops in the most unique of circumstances. From the Save-A-Soul mission to the backstage of the theater during rehearsals, the musical production of "Guys and Dolls" has been bringing people together for years — 41 years ago to be exact.

As the Clemson Players prepare to present this lively musical tale of sinners and saints coming together, another tale must be told of two former Clemson students who came together under the bright lights of musical theater.

"Guys and Dolls," a Tony award-winning musical with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser and a book by Abe Burrows, is the tale of the friendliest group of gamblers and “sinners” ever seen. Originally premiering in 1950 and based on the stories of Damon Runyon, "Guys and Dolls" tells the story of Nathan Detroit and his friend, Sky Masterson, who find salvation and love in their search for a safe harbor for their gambling exploits. Clemson alumna Lynn Tortora and her husband, Augie, found love as well.

Much like the nightly rehearsals and quality cast time the current Clemson Players are spending on this production, the Tortoras found out they had a lot more in common than just parts in a musical when it was presented in 1971 by the Clemson Little Theatre, the Clemson Music Club and the Clemson Players.

“I think we went on one date before being in the show, but being thrown together every night at rehearsal really helped our relationship to solidify and we started to like each other.” Lynn was a “Hot Box girl” and Augie played the role of Big Julie.

Now, in 2012, the performing arts department and the Clemson Players have championed the entire production, from sets to staging, props to costumes, and everything in between.

“I’m so proud of the hard work that our students and faculty have put into this production,” said David Hartmann, chairman of the performing arts department. “We are excited to present a traditional musical with new and unique approaches that will make the show just as fun for today’s current audience as it was when it originally premiered.”

"Guys and Dolls" will be presented at 8 p.m. from Wednesday, Feb. 29, to Saturday, March 3, and 3 p.m. Sunday, March 4, at the Brooks Center for the Performing Arts.

And, of course, Lynn and Augie Tortora will be in the audience reminiscing on the production that brought them together decades before.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and can be purchased at www.clemson.edu/Brooks, at the Box Office or by calling at 864-656-7787 from 1 to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

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