Bridge Theatre's modern take on the classic musical Guys and Dolls has been wowing audiences with its innovative staging and vibrant performances. Today we're talking with Owain Arthur, known for his memorable role in the hit series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power who stars in the production as Nathan Detroit.
Owain Arthur headshot.
Tell us a little bit about your character in Guys and Dolls..
Gambling is all Nathan Detroit knows, and he spends his days on Broadway in NYC gambling on horses and arranging illegal Crap games. He’s renowned amongst the underworld as the reliable gateway to gambling but we see him at the top of the show struggling to find a venue away from the eyes of the law. His world is becoming smaller as he’s being hunted by Lieutenant Branagan and the pressure from the criminal underworld is building. He’s also hopelessly in love with Adelaide and they’ve been engaged for fourteen years but he’s at risk to losing her as her patience is running thin waiting for a wedding date.
Although a criminal Nathan is innocent enough and his heart is in the right place and the pressure he faces brings out a lot of comedic moments.
For those that don’t know a lot about Guys and Dolls, what is it about?
It’s essentially a love story set in 1950’s Broadway amongst the illegal gambling world. A lot of the characters have big journeys throughout and it’s supported by incredible music with songs we all know and love.
What was it about this production which encouraged you to audition and be a part of it?
Whenever you get a call from Sir Nicholas Hytner you have to answer. He’s a genius and has given me my best theatrical experiences ever. History Boys was the first and and One Man Two Guvnors a few years later. I never thought I’d see myself playing a leading role in a musical but here we are, he’s yet again given me another landmark experience and a fresh challenge that I’m grateful for.
You took on the role after Daniel Mays, how have you created your own interpretation of the character and what have been the biggest challenges?
The challenge was not to drop the ball. Danny is such a talented actor and had set the bar so high which made him a tough act to follow so I knew I had to work hard to try and keep the standards high. I take my hat off to Nick however by giving me that space to bring my own thoughts and mannerisms to the role. Whilst having the same blueprint as Danny I focused on the material put in front of me and let that be my challenge. I’m flattered and proud that I’ve shared this role with Danny and we’ll always have this experience in common.
This production of Guys and Dolls is set in an immersive way. Why do you think this works so well with this musical?
The Bridge Theatre is such a wonderful space for audiences to be in and as a performer it’s electric. By being in the round and immersive everything seems so alive and heightened. By losing the 4th wall makes this musical more intimate which as a result makes the audience more invested in 1950’s Broadway and the characters that live in it. Every department that’s worked so hard in the making of this show shines brightly and it’s a real treat for the senses.
What is it like performing in a show that has such a close and intimate relationship with its audience?
Like I said it’s electric. There’s an unpredictability here which is different than having a proscenium as a safety barrier. There’s no hiding and I love it. Sharing a thought or a feeling by making eye contact with an audience member is intimate and thrilling and by the end of the musical both the audience and us up on the stage leave the theatre having shared a special experience that won’t and can’t be shared anywhere else. I’m sure the crew and the movement stewards have a similar experience too. I love it.
Why does a musical like Guys and Dolls have such a timeless appeal to audiences do you think?
We can all relate to every single character on stage. We’ve either faced the same dilemmas ourselves or know someone who has. The witty script asks the same questions we face today and the the familiar songs which stay with you for days are beautiful and up lifting.
Finally, why should people book their tickets to see Guys and Dolls?
For all the reasons I’ve said above. The script is genius and the music is top drawer. Arlene Phillips and James Cousin’s choreography is jaw dropping. I promise every single person that come to see us here that they’ll absolutely love it and leave the theatre feeling like they’ve had their money’s worth. I’ve said it before but this show should be on the NHS.
Book your Guys and Dolls tickets
See Owain and the rest of the cast in Guys and Dolls at the Bridge Theatre.
