West Side Story is not one of my favorite shows to begin with, but I really wanted to see this production because I was curious about the Spanish integration and I had never seen it on stage before. They used the original choreography that Jerome Robbins created instead of going a new route and I couldn't picture any other type fitting in so well. The dance fights were beautifully done, but I wanted the show to be on bigger stage I felt it needed more room especially in the Dance scene. I actually sat wondering how many times people had been kicked during rehearsals because they seemed so close sometimes. The rumble was perhaps my favorite scene. I thought the lighting was really well done. I was impressed with the staging and arrangements of the music. However, I could see why people wouldn't like this version as much as the original though it almost seemed too happy.
I thought that the Spanish was a really great addition to the story it added a realism creating more of a border between the groups. I think this story is extremely relevant and I liked the reminder that we still face this ignorance and prejudice. Different doesn't mean wrong and I think that people need a reminder like that every day.
I really enjoyed watching the production because Arthur Laurent (who is somewhere in his 90s right now) directed this version and I have to say that watching this production made me realize that the experienced people in the business are the true experts.
I loved the end of the show the best where Tony is shot - having one of the Jets to place the shawl on the grieving Maria was brilliant. Josefina Scaglione delivered her speech with just the right amount of effective passion. Then the bows had no music playing which was such a brilliant way to end the show. It was wonderful to watch the fruits of such a seasoned Professional's labor.
Next up Superior Donuts and Billy Elliot in November or December!
8 hours ago
