Book by Arthur Laurents
Music by Leonard Bernstein
Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim
This classic retelling of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet tells the story of Maria and Tony, young lovers combating racism and gang culture in the streets of New York.
Theater West End has done it again, creating an entire world within the confines of this small theater. What West End lacks in size, they make up with incredible determination and undeniable talent.
Ensemble:
Valerie Torres- Rosario: I’m always in awe of actors who play multiple roles and even though Valerie isn’t necessarily changing characters, the track she plays calls for her to wear many hats. She gets to be cute and fun during "America" then lovely and heartbreaking during "Somewhere". I applaud this actress for making specific character choices despite the fact that her role could be for some seen as a minor part. Valerie does nothing in a minor way.
Lady Sharks: The harmonies were forever locked with these women. "America" and "Pretty" were stand out moments for these women to show they listen and adjust to one another as ensemble performers must do. My only note for these women is something I commented on in a previous review. I advise all young women to be careful of what I refer to as the 90 degree elbow and wrist. This occurs when young actresses are either nervous or unsure of their physicality and they hold their arms bent at the elbow and/or wrist at 90 degrees. It is a small detail but as an audience member, I believe it subconsciously makes us think the actress isn't old enough to portray even a teenage girl. This is a small detail but one I believe will assist in your believability along the way.
Jets: The men in this ensemble have a lot of work to do. The amount of energy needed for 5 numbers specifically for the Jets to perform by themselves plus ensemble performances is staggering. I applaud these men their stamina which never seemed to wain. They were fun and engaging with one another. A note for all members of the cast, be careful not to anticipate the next line. One member of the cast had the habit of looking to the next person to speak before their lines. It is distracting to the audience especially in a small space and it disengages you from your fellow players.
Sharks and Lady Jets: While this show does have opportunities for latinos, people of color and females, there isn't much to the characters. Great work to all of these ensemble performers for taking the audience through this journey. My advice for the Sharks, be aware of your facial expressions. Anger comes from a specific place for each character as individuals. It also manifests itself in posture and physicality. (This is getting DEEP). You are all capable of it.
Music: Great job to the pit for beautiful work. A note for the theater, it might be good to invest in a drum shield. Many of the vocals were lost behind the drums especially in the area closest to the drum set.
Michael Cleary: I could on for days about Michael. Some would say I have. I have been following this actor's work for about a year and have seen tremendous growth. Michael's portrayal of Riff, the leader of the Jets, is strong and grounded. What was most fun about watching him play this character is that Riff goes from being this tough guy, gang leader to this song and dance man. Michael made the transition into songs seamless, as if it were the fun natural playfulness of the character himself. Michael as a knack for embodying the characters he plays and it doesn't go unnoticed with Riff. This actor also understands that his audience needs to be on his side no matter what character he plays. You have to like Riff in order to buy that he believes what he is doing is the right thing. Michael is a strong performer and we are fortunate to have him be a part of the theater community.
Cameron Hale: This dreamy and breathtaking performer is brilliant to watch. Cameron's powerhouse tenor during "Maria" could be felt resonating through the chairs. If you watch him too close, you will fall in love. There was a literal twinkle in his eye. I repeat, a LITERAL twinkle. What I applaud most about this actor is his ability to create relationships between his character and others. Cameron is not shy about connecting with his fellow players. This is what makes an incredible performer. When this actor looked into the eyes of his partner in the scene, you could feel the connection made, whether it was vulnerable holding Maria in his arms or strong and confident because his best and trusted friend Riff was with him. Bravo, sir.
Tamir Navarro: I describe Tamir's portrayal of Maria as a Disney princess without the fuss. She is believable and genuine. Not only do I get lost in the trills of this singer's effortless soprano, but I am amazed at her ability to tell this character's story with focus. Tamir's ability to transform from Bernardo's cute little sister to the beautiful woman Tony falls in love with is magical. Ultimately we see Maria fall apart when her love is killed. Tamir's very real reaction to the death of Tony shocked me. That's saying a lot from having already seen the show in it's first week. It was very organic and heart wrenching. Nothing was put on with this actress. I was still captivated by this performance hours later.
I grew up, like many, watching the film so much I often thought snapping fingers signified time to whistle and dance. This production was fun, though in it's second week it could still use some polishing. But this show has a lot of things going on if I'm only talking about the choreography. Theater West End has spoiled me when it comes to live theater. Not only are their performers talented, they are interesting and dynamic. I also love seeing new faces in the casts as well. AND THANK YOU FOR DOING SHOWS NO ONE ELSE IS DOING!
Bravo kids.
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