Studio Tenn Brings Guys and Dolls to Middle Tennessee 8/18-28

Middle Tennessee theatre company Studio Tenn kicks off its inaugural season at the legendary Franklin Theatre on August 18-28 with a production of the classic Broadway musical "Guys and Dolls." Featuring a score by Frank Loesser, "Guys and Dolls" tells the tale of two big-city gamblers and the women who love them. Leading the talented ensemble cast are Jared Bradshaw and John Hickman, of Broadway's "Jersey Boys." Individual tickets are on sale now at www.franklintheatre.com. Also online, Studio Tenn season tickets are available at 20% off the regular prIce Through August 12.

Set for a 10-day run, "Guys and Dolls" is the first-ever professional live theatre production at the Franklin Theatre. Built in 1937, the historic facility reopened in June following a four-year restoration. As part of the restoration, the Heritage Foundation of Franklin & Williamson County -- who owns the theater -- added a $1.5-million sound and lighting system to support live entertainment in addition to traditional movie screenings.

"The Franklin Theatre is one of the last surviving movie houses in the South," said Heritage Foundation Executive Director Mary Pearce. "Now, we're proud to offer movies, music and more -- including world-class live theatre with Studio Tenn."

Studio Tenn was founded in 2009 by nationally known director and artist Matt Logan, Emmy Award-winning producer Philip Hall, and Broadway and film actress Marguerite Lowell Hall. The company's mission is simple: "Use a rich combination of talent from Nashville and Broadway to bring classic works of drama and musical theatre to life in Middle Tennessee, and provide innovative educational programs designed to entertain, educate and inspire rising artists."

Jake Speck, Studio Tenn's managing director, said the company's goal is to bring Broadway-caliber theatre to Middle Tennessee." The history and vision of the Franklin Theatre brings an exciting new dimension to our work," Speck said. "We are delighted to partner with an organization that shares our passion for high-quality and exceptional entertainment."

In addition to "Guys and Dolls," Studio Tenn will present "A Christmas Carol" on December 8-18 in conjunction with downtown Franklin's "Dickens of a Christmas Festival." Studio Tenn's inaugural season at the Franklin Theatre concludes on February 23-March 4 with "The Miracle Worker."

Visitors heading to the Franklin Theatre for "Guys and Dolls" can find area information, including lodging, online at www.visitfranklin.com .