Review: West Side Story at Bridport Electric Palace

FIRST staged on Broadway in 1957, West Side story is said to have changed the face of musical theatre.

Based on the book by Arthur Laurents, Leonard Bernstein’s unforgettable score with Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics and ground breaking choreography by Jerome Robbins, this innovative musical would be a challenge for any theatre company. Bridport Musical Theatre’s production at the Electric Palace was an outstanding success, a musical delight from beginning to end. The audience were spellbound and I certainly was not the only one who shed the odd tear or two.

The talented and energetic cast were directed superbly by Dave Swaffield who, along with a brilliant creative team, produced an entertaining yet heart wrenching and passionate piece of theatre.

Rebecca Mather’s brave decision to use Jerome Robbin’s original choreography certainly paid off. Her skill and determination and the dancers’ hard work and commitment led to slick, finger snapping, toe tapping and electrifying dance routines. The vocals were also very impressive. Musical director and vocal coach Lauren Glover demonstrated her expertise with a sophisticated and complex score. With the authentic set and costume design and atmospheric lighting, the audience was transported back in time to 1950s New York.

Tilly Boulay captured the innocence and naivety of Maria beautifully and Cameron Love’s Tony was romantic and likeable. This talented young couple’s vulnerable performances were really touching. Ally Hughes (Riff) and Greg Horton (Bernado) were strong and convincing and Jasmine Mather displayed her dazzling versatility as the simmering Anita.

The cool American Jets and the full-blooded, Puerto-Rican Shark sequences were full of vitality. The ‘Officer Krupke’ routine brought some excellent slapstick comedy into the mix and The Rumble, with some really well- executed fight scenes, was intensely splendid. Every member of the Bridport Musical Theatre Company gave exceptionally focussed and passionate performances throughout and they should all feel extremely proud of themselves.

I can’t wait for the next show.

Nita Hearne