LATHROP – The hustle and bustle of the big city with small-time gamblers and band members of the Save-a-Soul Mission is the part of the opening scene for Lathrop High School Advance Theatre production, “Guys and Dolls.”

For the past two months, the cast of the play directed by Dianna Puett have rehearsed this musical fable of Broadway. This story is based on characters by Damon Runyon and the book by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows.

As for the cast, Nick Vaughn stars as Nathan Detroit, who operates an illegal floating crap game. He’s joined by fellow gamblers Charles Scott Edwards as Nicely Nicely and Daniel Lorentz as Benny Southstreet.

Gabby Ortiz plays Miss Adelaide, who is Nathan’s long-time finance. She doesn’t like it that Nathan is still running his crap game.

Marissa Candelaria is the pious Sarah Brown, who works to get the gamblers and sinners to change their ways. Eric De Leon, as Sky Masterson, pursues his ‘doll’ Sarah after taking on a bet by Nathan.

The cast of the LHS spring musical also includes Marshall Romo as Arivde and Jessica Barnes as General Cartwright.

According to Puett, they began in January with the casting as rehearsals got started soon after.

She indicated that students have also been working with music director Judy Avila and choreographer Kristina Candelaria, Marissa’s sister.

Opening night is Thursday, April 18, at 7:30. Evening performances (7:30) are also planned for April 19 (Friday) and April 26 (Saturday).

Matinees are scheduled for 12:30 p.m. on April 26-27.

Tickets are $6 for general admission and $3 for seniors and students with ASB.

The play is not recommended for children under 12.

The LHS Theatre is located at 647 Spartan Way.

For more information, call Puett at 209-938-6350 or e-mail dpuett@musd.net.