Review: Classic, Fantastic WEST SIDE STORY

WEST SIDE STORY, the classic retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in New York City places our star-crossed lovers on either side of a turf war between rival gangs. It's a play so iconic and so familiar that even if one hasn't actually seen it, he or she has likely heard the songs and knows the names Sharks and Jets. Even if you've seen it 100 times, it's very worth stopping by Theatre by The Sea for another viewing. Sometimes a show is practically perfect and doesn't need much tinkering, but skilled direction, choreography and costumes can still elevate a classic to new heights.

There are many strengths to this production of West Side Story, and all coalesce to make it a pure pleasure to watch. The costumes are absolutely spot-on throughout, but they really create a stunning visual composition during the dance at the gym where the Jets are in pale blue and yellow and the Sharks in vibrant purple and red. All of the costumes fit their characters perfectly, and the stark contrast between the rich red and purple and the clean blue and yellow speak volumes about the rival gangs without saying a word.

Equally impressive is the choreography in this production. The cast is high-energy and every dance number is thrilling from start to finish. The small size of the stage and large cast dancing in unison create an almost overwhelming sensation of movement, but the smaller dance numbers are equally well-executed. Despite the sometimes cartoonish feeling that comes with the dance fighting that this production is known for, the tension never drops and the audience was completely sucked into the world created on the stage. The violence in the story too, is dealt with in such a way that it feels palpable, but doesn't drag down the energy. Every action is so well thought out, there's very little to critique, and it's best to just sit back and soak it in.

Of course, no stage musical can be a success without some impressive vocal talents, and this production has that well covered. Anita, played by Dana Hunter smolders on the stage and fills every corner of space with her clear and powerful vocals. Hers is a voice that is a pure pleasure to listen to, and it stands out even in a cast as talented as this. The other standout is Bronson Norris Murphy as Tony. His rendition of "Maria" is the kind of performance that can have the audience wiping away tears they didn't even know were there. In addition to his fantastic singing voice, Murphy's performance as Tony is sweet and sincere, and a good compliment to Maria's, played by Evy Ortiz, innocence, making it all the more believable that the two of them could fall in love at first sight.

Theatre by The Sea's production of West Side Story is nearly flawless, and fans and newcomers alike owe themselves the chance to experience it. This is show is a classic for a reason, and this production in particular is so well-executed that it's almost an immersive experience. The songs will be stuck in your head for days, but it's 100% worth it.

Tickets for WEST SIDE STORY are $47, $57, & $67. Musicals run Tuesdays through Sundays. Check Website for exact dates and show times. Tickets are available by phone (401) 782-8587, online at theatrebythesea.com, or in person at 364 Cards Pond Road, Wakefield, RI 02879. RUNNING TIME: Approximately 2 hrs 20 min (includes intermission)

Dana Hunter (Anita) and the Shark's girls. Photo by Steven Richard Photography