Swing steps in last minute making lead debut to save GUYS & DOLLS at Bridge Theatre

Besties, we LOVE these kind of stories!

Last night, Callum Bell (who is a Swing in Guys & Dolls at the Bridge Theatre) stepped into play one of the lead roles, Nicely Nicely Johnson, in Nicholas Hytner’s critically acclaimed immersive production…with no rehearsal.

Cedric Neal, who usually plays the role, and both of his understudies were ill and unable to perform. Without Bell taking on the role, the show would have had to be cancelled and hundreds of disappointed audience members turned away.

Assistant Director Lily Dyble said: “It was genuinely an electric evening and the audience went wild for Callum - they totally got behind him. It is an insane role to step into on the day! I can't communicate the scale of it enough or what a massive undertaking it is for Callum.”

23-year-old Bell has been a Swing in the cast and part of its ensemble since it opened in March 2023, but this is his first time taking the lead. His other theatre credits include Half a Sixpence at Kilworth House and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs for Qdos. He is one to watch, however, as his film credits include Barbie and the soon to be released film Wonka.

Well done Callum!!

To book tickets for Guys & Dolls, please click here.