West Side Story

For over fifty years this wonderful musical has thrilled audiences. Leonard Bernstein’s magnificent musical score and Stephen Sondheim’s magical lyrics continue to resonate with audiences young and old alike. A modern version of Romeo and Juliet, this masterpiece of musical theatre mirroring the couples ill-fated romance being as pertinent today and as dramatic and compelling as ever.

At every level the production oozed quality and class, leaving the audience totally enthralled. The result being one of an outstanding company achieving a stunning outcome and delivering a superb piece of entertainment.

From the outset the introduction of the Jets beginning with a freeze moved quickly on to an exciting first number which was electrifying, driving pace and energy that continued for the whole show.   

Leading the rival gangs “Riff” Aaron Bennett gave an impressive performance as did Kit Windows-Yule in the role of “Bernardo”. Both delivering aggression and power of movement, never once losing their mastery of the stagecraft the roles demanded in leading the “Jets” and “Sharks” who whenever they met on stage generated a palpable tension of great quality.

In the role of “Tony” Steve Miller gave a superb performance with the right level of chemistry alongside “Maria” – Cerys Jones. Both outstanding vocally and in stage movement delighted the audience. The highly talented duo delivered the show's big numbers, including “Maria”, “Tonight”, “One Hand One Heart” and “I Feel Pretty” with admirable precision to match their high-quality acting performances making their relationship totally credible.

A stunning “Anita” played with style by Laura Synnuck gave a storming performance leading the explosive ‘America’. There were excellent performances by Michael Hill –“Chino”, Elliot Kainey  “Action”, Owen Hodges “Diesel” Joe Hadley “A-rab” Louisa Ford “Graziella” and “Anybodys” wonderfully portrayed by Becky Price. Other notable roles which impressed were “Doc” – Rob Cockrell,”Krupke” – Tam Weir, “Shrank” – Bruce Wyatt and “Gladhand” played by Abbi Jakeman.

It’s not possible to mention to everyone. However whilst including the most brilliant principal line up this production owed much to an accomplished company who in their own individual way staying true to character in each and every scene. The direction and choreography were inspired, with pace as highly energised dance numbers demonstrating incredible footwork of amazing precision created moves that swept across the stage and were remarkable. Fight scenes of realistic quality also helped in telling the story so well.    

A less than complex set met all the requirements underpinned with highly imaginative props, enhanced by hugely effective lighting and superbly timed sound effects. Add costumes of colour tone and style and sensational vocals doing full justice to the memorable Bernstein score with a wonderful well-balanced orchestra and the result was completely assured.

Following the pace, fast-moving choreography and aggression the show ended in quiet solemnity with  “Riff”,  “Bernardo” and the now-deceased “Tony” all walking off the stage. “Maria” desolate on stage in the final moments of a production featuring passion and emotion prompted just one exclamation. WOW!

This was a magnificent production from a hugely talented company and thank you for a lovely evening of first class entertainment.

Ian G Cox

Regional Representative - Worcestershire East (District 12)

NODA – Be Inspired by Amateur theatre  

On behalf of Trevor Guest 

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