BOUNTIFUL -- When one thinks of Bountiful Performing Art Center's Black Box Theatre on the lower level of the BDAC gallery, it's easy to see why producers decided to perform their summer show outdoors. Not only does the wide open sky provide a broader backdrop, but the characters are portrayed larger-than-life, too. Patrons of the Bountiful/Davis Art Center's Summerfest Interna-tional were treated to a rare preview performance by several cast members from "Guys and Dolls" Saturday, Aug. 13, on the Grassroots Stage. The musical from the swinging Big Band era of the 1940s is the story of big city underground gambling combined with Salvation Army preaching, all woven around the Big Bet and a well-crafted romance.

Trent Oliphant, Darrin Farrell and Mark Noyle started the fun with a beautifully blended trio in "Fugue for Tinhorns." The three play gamblers Nicely-Nicely Johnson, Benny Southwest and Nathan Detroit, respectively.

Elizabeth Hales and Josh Richardson sparkled on "I'll Know" as Sarah Brown, the prim Salvation Army officer and Sky Masterson, the handsome gambler. The sparks fly as the chemistry becomes explosive.

Every show needs color which is provided by Lisa Grow as Miss Adelaide. Her rendition of "Adelaide's Lament (A Girl Could Catch a Cold)" is spicy and hilarious enough on its own to be worth the cost of the ticket.

Grow is in her comedic element as the comic, classic showgirl and gambler's moll.

Audiences are in for a treat with this stunning outdoor production.

It is easy to see why BPAC recently earned a "Best of State" award.

"Guys and Dolls" will run Monday, Aug. 22, through Saturday, Sept. 3, at 8 p.m. at "The Big Outdoor Stage" in the Bountiful City Center, 750 East just off Main Street.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors over 55 and students 17 and under.

For more information, go to bpac.cc or call 294-7469.