I have always been a fan of musicals, but one in particular has always held a special place with me. In 6th grade, I had the very best English teacher, ever. She was wonderful and really understood me. Towards the end of that school year, she introduced our class to West Side Story--we read the play and studied the music and for the last day of the school year, we got to watch the movie. The impression of that show will always be engrained in my memory. The emotions it invoked will always make West Side Story one of my very favorite musicals.
So, you can imagine how excited I was to go see West Side Story on Broadway. I was afraid that my anticipation of the show in New York would be built up in my mind and would possibly not live up to the expectations, but I can happily tell you that my expectations were, indeed, exceeded. This production was fantastic!
It is so amazing to see familiar and loved songs performed live onstage in front of you, the dancing was so graceful and the acting was so heartfelt--you were transplanted into the world of New York City rival gangs--the Jets and the Sharks. Maria was lovely, Anita was charismatic, and Tony's portrayal was remarkable. I was really impressed with how great the acting was.
If you are going to see a show on Broadway, go see West Side Story! This is what the stage is all about, a great love story, beautiful singing, fantastic dancing, and acting that brings emotions to the surface. West Side Story remains my favorite, only now I have had the opportunity to see it played out before my eyes on the stage, as it was made to be seen. The caliber of the show was beyond words. I can't think of a better way to spend an evening.
To purchase your own tickets and to learn more about the show, go to http://www.broadwaywestsidestory.com/
