West Side Story (From Gazette Series)

West Side Story

12:43pm Tuesday 7th July 2009 in

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West Side Story Bristol Hippodrome, June 30 - July 11 THE show that changed the face of musical theatre returned to the Bristol Hippodrome last week, celebrating 50years since its controversial Broadway debut.

West Side Story, with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, is a 20th century-take on Romeo and Juliet and has a soundtrack famous the world over.

This production by the Sadler’s Wells touring cast was eagerly anticipated by an eager audience – and with due cause.

A packed house were enthralled by classics such as America, Somewhere, I Feel Pretty, Tonight and Maria, which were performed with pitch-perfect sincerity. Special mentions must go to Sofia Escobar as Maria and Jayde Westaby as Anita, whose rendition of America really captured the essence of the era.

With a gritty backdrop of Manhatten’s Upper West Side, America’s gang culture of the fifies was beautifully brought to life with immaculate choreography and a breathtaking set.

Times have changed, but the arrogance of youth remains the same.

If you haven’t got a ticket then I urge you to beg, borrow or steal one for this, the hottest show in town.

Jayne Bennett