“West Side Story”

[rating=4] Every year, the Lyric Opera brings us a Broadway Musical. This year, they have opted to bring to their stage, “West Side Story”, based on a conception by Jerome Robbins ( who also did the original choreography and direction). The book by Arthur Laurents with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim was first performed in 1957 ( that is over 60 years) and has withstood the years, with a story that has been around since the days of William Shakespeare, who gave us what some feel is the original, “Romeo & Juliet”. Instead of the family feud between the Montague’s and Capulets, it is now between the Americans and Puerto Ricans in New York City. Forbidden love as well as the racial tensions of the day ( and perhaps, just as apt today) are a key to this musical. “West Side Story” is unique in that it brings us a topical subject and lessons of morality with great music, wonderful dance and a story that is one that has been around for centuries.

Over the years, in our regional theaters, we have seen countless productions of “West Side Story” and as I always say, when it comes to live theater, a different director, choreographer, cast, set and stage can alter the appearance, the translation and the overall appearance of the finished product. The Lyric production is no different. Directed by Francesca Zambello on a set designed by Peter J. Davison, we are in New York, and our scenes are on the street, at the high school gym, Doc’s place, the bridal shop where Maria works and of course, the room that Maria sleeps in along with her fire escape/balcony. We see and feel the places we are supposed to be seeing.

Back in the day, “Turf” was important ( it probably still is in areas where gangs rule) and “West Side Story” was a vehicle that would show America that there was indeed a gang problem. During my years with La Raza, a Spanish weekly newspaper, going out into the “hoods” of Chicago, I learned about “Colors” and “holidays”. Yes, Chicago had its own “West Side Story”, but more on the South Side than the West.

The choreography is that of Robbins, but reproduced by Julio Monge, with some clever twists and turns that bring out a little more of the ballet style that works well with Bernstein’s score. I loved what I saw.

Many of us, in particular those who have seen many versions of this musical, often look at the characters and recall those they have seen in the past productions ( or even the movie version). This is a no-no! If you had never seen another version of “West Side Story” and had nothing to compare it to, you will love what Lyric has done and the cast they have brought to their stage. Corey Cott is a marvelous Tony with a great vocal range, and the chemistry we see between his Tony and Maria ( Mikaela Bennett) is magical. By the way, her voice will wow you!

Anita ( deftly handled by Amanda Castro) owns the stage in both song, dance and her development of the character. Manuel Stark Santos is a solid Bernardo ( brother to Maria and leader of the Sharks). Riff, the leader of the Jets is well-played by Brett Thiele. It is important to note that Riff and Bernardo are important parts of the story, but the key characters are truly Tony, Maria and Anita. They are all perfect!

As a dance show, the ensemble is composed of some powerful dancers who are skilled and this group is amazing. Both the Jets:Adam Soniak, Taylor Simmons, Jarred Manista, Wesley Ryan, Jeffrey C. Sousa, Callan Bergmann, Paul HeeSang Miller and Juan Caballer and the Sharks: Julio Rey ( as Chino), Mark Deller, Joshua LaMar, Joseph A. Hernandez, Greg Blackmon, Michael J. Rios, Martin Ortiz Tapia and Sebastian Garcia. Alexa Magro is “Anybodys”, an important character, to say the least ( of the times, in particular).

The ladies and the “adults” as they are called in the program all make the show complete. Local actors Ed Kross ( who did this show many years ago as a gang member) is dynamite as Glad Hand and Schrank (Brett Tuomi), Jerry Kernion ( Krupke) and David Alan Anderson as Doc all add to the story.

The music is terrific and highly memorable. “Something’s Corning”, “Maria”, “Tonight”, “One Hand, One Heart”, “America”, “I Feel Pretty, “Somewhere” and the hysterical “Gee, Officer Krupke”) and many more. A young lady, who was in our opening night audience, along with her American Girl doll, was in tears during the final scene. “West Side Story” in one of those shows. There are times you are smiling, times you are laughing out loud and times that you fear for each of the young people on that stage. This is close to three hours in duration, but worth every minute. I do suggest a few tissues for this production. SPOILER ALERT: This is based on Romeo & Juliet, a tragedy. If you recall the ending of that one, you might have an idea of where WSS goes!

“West Side Story” will continue at the Lyric Opera House,  located at 20 N. Wacker Drive thru June 2nd with performances as follows:

Show Type: Musical

Box Office: 312-332-2244

www.lyricopera.org/concertstickets/calendar/2018-2019/west-side-story-musical-tickets

Valet parking is available, and here is something special: The Poetry Garage, located at 201 West Madison Street ( At Wells) ha a prepay program that will let you park for $12.00.

https://secure.parkonect.com ( best value as you are one block away from the Lyric.

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “West Side Story”

photos by  Todd Rosenberg