"Breeze it, Buzz it
Easy does, it
Turn off the juice, boy"
But the juice is not turned off in this production.
If you are looking for high-energy dance numbers performed with grace and precision, powerful harmonies engulfed in beauty and emotion, a story of tragedy, hope and passion, and, a whole lot of "Cool" - then look no further than "West Side Story", now playing at Cadillac Palace (151 W. Randolph St) through August 14th.
For those of you who do not know the story – a brief synopsis. It’s the early 1960’s in New York where local gang, The Jets, are not taking kindly to the newly populating Puerto Ricans, who now have an outfit of their own – The Sharks, led by "Bernardo". Following along the lines of Romeo and Juliet, the two gangs attend a community dance where former Jet leader, "Tony" instantly becomes infatuated with "Bernardo’s" sister, "Maria" who expresses the feeling to be mutual. Hopelessly in love, the two realize they must break past the hate-filled racial barriers set up, and maintained, by others if they are to find happiness together.
Directed by David Saint, the production grabs audience members instantly and does not let go from its opening scene where Jets leader by proxy, "Riff", leads his gang in a spirited version of "Jets Song" ("When you’re a Jet, you’re a Jet all the way – from your first cigarette to your last dying day…" you know the words). Each number is choreographed with style and exquisiteness, encompassing the perfect sassiness, defiance or romanticism when called upon. While intensity prevails in such numbers as "Dance at the Gym" and "America" we are also taken to a dreamlike bliss in "Somewhere" and "One Hand, One Heart".
As talented as the dancing is the singing. Kyle Harris ("Tony") and Ali Ewoldt ("Maria") display operatic vocal range, delivering each note with meticulousness accuracy and command. The two shine throughout but really leave a lasting impression in their duet, "Tonight". Taking nothing away from the many amazing performers that make up the Jets and Sharks, Michelle Arevena ("Anita") also deserves a special nod. Doing it all with her dazzling footwork and gifted vocals, Arevena makes for a highly entertaining "Anita".
Jets leader by proxy, "Riff" (Joseph E. Simeone), and head Shark, "Bernardo (German Santiago) lead one of the production’s most memorable scenes as the two gangs engage in a rumble below the highway. Joey McKneely, who reproduces the choreography, does an extraordinary job in combining ballet and modern dance with the actions of a street fight, turning the stage into a spectacle of fast moves, vicious turns and yet, the refinement and poise found in "Swan Lake".
"West Side Story" is one highlight after another. This particular production stays true to the essence of the original and is a slam-dunk when it comes to entertainment value. Tickets range from $32-$95 and there are also a number of premium seats available. For more information on show times, visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com or wwwBroadwayWestSideStory.com.
