West Side Story
Annie and I saw West Side Story performed at the Civic Opera Theatre in May. Annie had never seen the show and did not know the story. I was excited as I have always loved the movie, and my co-worker (who has extensive background in dance) believes it's the best musical of all time.
The stage was perfect for the show. They created a perfect set design and had plenty of room to show off the great choreography and unique spacing in the performance. I felt the production of this particular rendition was strong all the way through, but did not enjoy the ending. In the movie, when Tony is killed he is raised up and carried by members of both gangs. With a story that is filled with hate and discrimination, this scene represents resolution and a sign of hope. This doesn't happen in the production we saw. The show simply ends, with Maria crying over his dead body, and it is rather depressing. The absence of this one small scene took a lot away from the message West Side Story is stressing.
All of the performances were strong. I felt the woman who played Anita stole the show (which I have been told is typical for the musical). Maria's voice was so powerful and I was blown away. A complaint I heard from others who witnessed the show was the size of actress who played her. Although she was overweight, I didn't think it took much away from the show. Plus I wasn't very close, so it was more about the music for me. I understand the frustration, but if she was the strongest individual who auditioned, looks should not matter.
The stage was perfect for the show. They created a perfect set design and had plenty of room to show off the great choreography and unique spacing in the performance. I felt the production of this particular rendition was strong all the way through, but did not enjoy the ending. In the movie, when Tony is killed he is raised up and carried by members of both gangs. With a story that is filled with hate and discrimination, this scene represents resolution and a sign of hope. This doesn't happen in the production we saw. The show simply ends, with Maria crying over his dead body, and it is rather depressing. The absence of this one small scene took a lot away from the message West Side Story is stressing.
All of the performances were strong. I felt the woman who played Anita stole the show (which I have been told is typical for the musical). Maria's voice was so powerful and I was blown away. A complaint I heard from others who witnessed the show was the size of actress who played her. Although she was overweight, I didn't think it took much away from the show. Plus I wasn't very close, so it was more about the music for me. I understand the frustration, but if she was the strongest individual who auditioned, looks should not matter.
Photo Credit: Me!
Rating: 3/5
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