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| Nicola Hall (Maria), Lachlan Whan (Tony) Photo: Steph Burgess |
The Q,
Queanbeyan until 24th February.
Reviewed by
Bill Stephens
“West Side Story”, with its familiar Romeo and Juliet story set among warring gangs in the New York slums, is given an impressive new production by Free Rain Theatre, which effectively captures much of the excitement of this musical masterpiece.
Leonard
Bernstein’s still stunning score, thrillingly performed by a large orchestra
conducted by Major Geoff Grey, drives the production along, complimented by a
series of well-staged set pieces, most notably the “ Dance at the Gym” and the
impressively staged fight sequences, that are genuinely exciting.
Director, Anne
Somes has chosen a predominately young cast for this production, and while this
has paid off in the lead roles, some ensemble members simply do not have the technical
skills necessary to do justice to Lisa Buckley’s demanding choreography,
especially obvious in the opening “Jet Song”.
Despite his
slim physique, Lachlan Whan is a virile, passionate Tony, whose depiction of ecstatic
first love is both believable and affecting. His performance of “Maria” is a highlight. Nicola Hall is equally impressive as Maria,
and despite her pretty voice showing signs of tiredness in the second act, her
acting remained focussed and convincing.
Zack Drury
(Riff) and Jordan Kelly (Bernado) are both outstanding as the warring gang
leaders, but Amy Dunham as Anita, (unexpectedly, in flat shoes) appeared tentative
and insecure in a role that should deliver fireworks.
(This review appears in City News 14th February edition)
(This review appears in City News 14th February edition)