West Side Story

~~Long Eaton Operatic Society`s version of Leonard  Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim`s  contemporary  Romeo and Juliet burst into dance action between the local gangs,  the  Jets and Sharks,  which set  the tempo that was maintained throughout the production.  Innovative choreography by Gemma Haig was well executed by all.  Liz Woolley`s direction was distinctive.  Hers was a strong cast and all participants played vital roles in the emotive plot.  The `Dance At The Gym`  showcased  girls and boys to good effect and later the girls strutted their stuff in `America`.   Emily Marshall -Sims made a big impact as Anita, her singing and acting superb.  `A Boy Like That`  and the drug store scene, riveting.  Although Riff (Michael Daniels),  and  Bernado (Adam Guest),  are killed before Act 2 they both made their mark with good portrayals.

Finally,  Adam Daniels as Tony,  and Rachel Fenn as Maria were most believable as a young couple in love.  You could have heard a pin drop during their final emotion charged scene.  Vocals were beautifully controlled, `Tonight`  and `One Hand One Heart` being real highlights.

The set with climb over back wall wire netting and corrugated sheeting.  gave an excellent back drop to the tense gang scenes.  Good lighting and sound enhanced   the piece,  and  finally, Lizzie Bullard`s orchestra was excellent,  a fitting sound for a good production.

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