Wow! That just about sums up my impression of Neptune’s energetic, engrossing and affecting season-ender West Side Story. The dancing is to die for, a high-energy expression of teen angst and hormones beautifully executed and choreographed so that the smallish stage seems twice its size. Bernstein’s tricky score seems effortless in the hands (or throats?) of this cast, with the humourous and cutting take on immigrant life “I Want to Live in America” particularly standing out. The familiar, popular love songs like “Maria” and “Tonight” are also given lovely, soulful treatment. Liam Tobin is a dimply, dreamy Tony with an angelic voice. Anwyn Musico has a powerful, astonishing voice and her Maria is both sweet and feisty. Dayna Tietzen sizzles as the sultry Anita and Stephenos Christou makes for a smouldering hot Bernardo. West Side Story is a timeless show and this is an impeccable production of it. You don’t want to miss it.
To May 29, Neptune Theatre, 1593 Argyle Street, 429-7070,
see neptunetheatre.com for a full schedule
This article appears in Apr 14-20, 2011.
This show is not “impeccable”. It’s not the worst WSS I’ve ever seen but it leaves a lot to be desired and the casting is all over the place – Tony’s cute but wooden, Riff is dynamic but tone deaf, and the accents are embarrassing. Not worth the expensive seats, see it from the balcony.