WEST SIDE STORY - - Theater Mirror

Cast of ‘West Side Story’ at Reagle Music Theatre. (w Bianca Rivera-Irons, foreground) Photos by Herb Philpott

by Michele Markarian

“West Side Story”. Book by Arthur Laurents. Music by Leonard Bernstein. Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. Directed and Choreographed by Rachel Bertone. Music Direction by Dan Rodriguez. Presented by Reagle Music Theatre of Greater Boston, 617 Lexington Street, Waltham through July 16.

From the opening scene of “West Side Story” – chaotic and cacophonic– to the final image of Maria (Eevie Perez) kneeling alone in mourning onstage, we feel the heat and tension of New York, with its rival gangs, prejudice, and libido. No matter how many times I’ve seen this show, the music, choreography and storyline, based on Romeo and Juliet, never fail to hold my attention, with each director’s vision capturing something slightly different. Bertone’s version is no exception.

Reviewed by Tony Annicone

New Bedford Festival Theatre’s summer musical at the Zeiterion Theatre is “West Side Story”, the classic 1957 musical hit. It is based on Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” and the story is as fresh and meaningful to contemporary audiences as it was for audiences in 1591 for the original play as it was in 1957 for the musical version. Hatred and violence don’t solve problems, they create new ones. Love and understanding are the solutions to these problems, not only in these shows but in real life, too. The well known story of star crossed lovers Tony and Maria takes place in New York City. The outside forces of enemies, friends, gang members and adults keep them from fulfilling their dream of everlasting happiness due to hatred and bigotry. The twenty member cast under the insightful direction of Michael Susko, delivers the goods in a powerful and poignant presentation which propels the audience to their feet at the curtain call.

Tag: WEST SIDE STORY –

Reagle Music Theatre Delivers a Vibrant and Moving “West Side Story”

WEST SIDE STORY – New Bedford Festival Theatre