West Side Story

West Side Story, often called the ‘modern’ Romeo and Juliet, tells a timeless tale of love crossing boundaries and the tragic consequences of hatred. Bernstein’s magnificent score and Sondheim’s magical lyrics continue to resonate deeply, ensuring the show’s enduring relevance and popularity across generations.

From the moment the band struck up, it was clear this would be a night to remember, and it truly was electric from start to finish. With every aspect of the performance shining, the entire cast gave their all, delivering not just a great show but a truly fantastic one.

The presence of a 17-piece band in the “pit” was wonderful and added an extraordinary dimension to the performance. The sound you created was nothing short of incredible - rich, dynamic, and perfectly balanced, never overpowering the on-stage performances but enhancing every moment beautifully. Your talent and cohesion as a group were evident throughout, making the music an integral and unforgettable part of the experience. Congratulations to each and every one of you on an absolutely amazing performance!

The set design for the show was a masterpiece of 1950s style, with an alleyway scene that served as an evocative and effective backdrop. The set featured ladders leading to two separate balconies, creating a dynamic dual aspect view at the back of the stage. Scenes were brought to life in the foreground using turning screens, props, and furniture, showcasing the versatility of the set and immersing the audience in each new location. The lighting was both professional and perfectly executed, adding vibrant colour and atmosphere to every scene. It was used to great effect, beautifully complementing the on-stage action and bringing each moment vividly to life. I must commend the stage crew at this point, as the scene changes were handled with a quick efficiency that allowed the story to maintain its momentum, keeping the audience fully engaged throughout.

Leading the opposing gangs, Theo delivered a commanding and memorable performance as Riff, embodying the aggression and charisma required to spearhead the Jets. Equally impressive was Anton as Bernardo, whose portrayal radiated authority and physicality as leader of the Sharks. Both actors demonstrated exceptional stagecraft, capturing the raw power and tension of their roles with remarkable precision.

In the role of Tony, William delivered an outstanding performance, captivating the audience with his beautiful, rich, and smooth voice. His rendition of ‘Maria’ was nothing short of breathtaking, blending raw emotion and innocence in a way that felt completely authentic and deeply moving. His natural talent and magnetic stage presence made him a standout performer, leaving a lasting impression. A truly gifted individual, this actor is undoubtedly one to watch out for in the future.

Maria, played by Zuzanna delivered a masterful performance, bringing depth and sincerity to every aspect of her character. Her beautiful soprano voice was filled with emotional depth, and she remained fully in character throughout, never wavering in her commitment to the role. Her ability to maintain her accent flawlessly, even during the most demanding songs, was truly impressive. Well done!

The vibrant and charismatic Anita was played with incredible style by Camilla, who gave a brilliant performance from the outset. Her characterisation was rich and engaging, effortlessly blending fiery passion with moments of heartfelt emotion. Her exceptional vocals and dynamic choreography brought incredible energy to the role, making her a magnetic presence on stage. Fantastic Work!

There were so many excellent performances, and sadly it’s not possible to name every single one of you individually. Every cast member brought their own unique flair, staying true to their character in each and every scene, no matter how big or small the role. The dedication and emotion that each of you poured into this production was truly remarkable, resulting in a performance that left a lasting impression on the audience and brought the story beautifully to life. I do, however, have a few special mentions for some exceptional performances. Oliver  as Action was fantastic, remaining in character throughout, with lovely diction and wonderful singing in ‘Gee, Officer Krupke.’ Ava as Doc delivered a small but mighty performance, and the raw emotion you brought to Tony’s death scene was incredibly moving. Rosie as Marguerita gave a breathtaking rendition of ‘Somewhere’ - your solo was absolutely mesmerising. Finally, Henry - your ballet work was simply stunning and beautifully executed - such a talented display of grace and skill made it a true highlight of the show.

One of my favourite highlights of the show has to be ‘America’ - the playful and witty interplay between Anita and Rosalia (Jessica . Camilla and Jessica’s timing and delivery in this scene were superb, striking the perfect balance between humour and sass. The Shark Girls’ dancing and singing throughout this number were absolutely sensational, adding vibrant energy and flair that elevated the scene even further. Their synchronization, charisma, and undeniable talent made this number one of the standout moments of the production.

The direction and choreography throughout were exceptional, driving the production with incredible pace and energy. The highly energized dance numbers showcased astonishing footwork and impeccable precision, with movements that flowed seamlessly across the stage and into the auditorium. The fight scenes were equally impressive, delivering a level of realistic intensity that added depth and drama to the storytelling. Every sequence was choreographed and executed with meticulous attention to detail, enhancing the impact of the performance and bringing the narrative to life with flair and power.

This was a magnificent production by a truly talented group of young individuals. Your passion, dedication, and skill shone brilliantly in every moment, making this an unforgettable show. You should all be incredibly proud of the outstanding work you have achieved together. Thank you for inviting me to an evening of top-class entertainment.

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