Photo Credits: Marina Bay Sands
Inspired by Shakespeare's tumultuous love story Romeo and Juliet, and set amidst the vicious rivalry of teenage gangs in 1950s New York, WEST SIDE STORY's ground-breaking choreography and unforgettable score changed the face of musical theatre for ever when it burst onto the Broadway stage in 1957.
Now a vibrant new stage production of the classic dance musical is coming to Singapore, following wild acclaim and sold-out seasons around the world, from London, Tokyo and Sydney.
An outstanding US cast will electrify audiences with their passionate high-energy dance routines and their astounding vocal range in such classic songs as Maria, Tonight, Somewhere, America and I Feel Pretty.
WEST SIDE STORY packs a powerful punch, both dramatically and musically. The movie version went on to win an incredible 10 Oscars (including Best Picture) and further cemented the reputation of this undoubted masterpiece.
West Side Story
Advisory: Some Mature Content
Date: 13 - 30 September 2017
Time:
- Tue - Fri:8pm
- Sat (16 Sep):1pm & 6pm
- Sat (23 Sep):2pm & 8pm
- Sun:1pm & 6pm
West Side Story Trailer
[Review - Yun Huei] Despite a largely American cast, this iteration of the much-beloved musical West Side Story is from Joey McNeely's 2008 West End revival, rather than the 2009 Broadway revival by West Side Story novelist Arthur Laurents. Keeping intact much of Jerome Robbins' original Broadway choreography and even taking cues from the lighting design of the 1961 film adaptation, this is very much a classic take on the musical. And yet, given the strange times we are living in now, the themes covered in the production are still relevant and resonant.
While West Side Story is intentionally spare in terms of stage design, it's functional and effective, and the bursts of colour found in the costumes and lighting really help to enhance the production. While the musical is slightly showing its age, it remains an engrossing, easy watch albeit one that's a little heavy going (given that it's based on Romeo and Juliet, most audiences should be aware even before entering the theatre).
Kevin Hack (as Tony) and Jenna Burns (as Maria) are excellent in their roles, showing great vocal prowess and emotive capabilities. Keely Beirne is also very memorable as Anita. The ensemble dances are very well executed, and really emphasizes the point that West Side Story has as much to offer in the dance department apart from the acting and singing. Maestro Donald Chan is also present as musical director, and brings Bernstein's lush orchestral score to life.
For those hankering for an "old-school" musical that still bears modern day relevancy, West Side Story is an engrossing, thought-provoking 2+ hours, well-worth the price of entry.