Until May 24, CTORA delivers a stellar production of West Side Story to the Granville Island Stage. An ambitious venture to produce one of Broadways most beloved musical featuring iconic tunes from the Great American Songbook pays off in spades for CTORA.
Directed by Chris Adams, this version of West Side Story feels like it’s stepped right out of the 1950s with choreography by Suzanne Ouellette recreating the historic work of original director/choreographer Jerome Robbins, that he would be proud of. Set & Costume Designer Brian Ball recreates the gritty streets and styles of Manhattan’s Upper West Side competing gangs, The Sharks mainly Puerto Rican newcomers, and The Jets, locals who feel that their world is being taken over by interlopers. While West Side Story features music written by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and book by Arthur Laurents in the 1950’s and based Shakespeare’s 400 year old Romeo and Juliet the spirit of love and culture clashes still echo today in this timeless tale.
From the opening overture, the brilliant cast of over two dozen captivates the audience with the iconic choreography and music, backed by a live 14 piece band under the Musical Direction of Kevin Woo. Having the lush live music adds so much more to the production, fulling immersing the audience in the Bernstein’s works. Full of triple-threats, the cast is lead by Sayer Roberts and Cassandra Consiglio as star-crossed lovers Tony and Maria. Perfectly matched, their chemistry is more than just One Hand, One Heart it’s one voice as come together and invest each of their legendary songs, like Tonight, with heartfelt feelings. Like the entire cast, the pair are talented dancers, their passionate synchronicity keeps the audience vested in their tragic romance.
Other stand-outs in the cast include; Josh Graetz as Riff the charismatic leader of The Jets and Tony’s best friend. Vicente Sandoval as the hot headed Bernardo, Maria’s overprotective brother, leader of The Sharks, and boyfriend of Anita played by Nicole Laurent who brings fiery fervor to the role, especially her signature song America. Another defining piece, Somewhere, is beautifully sung by Holly Collis Handford, (who plays Anybodys), creating the majestic background for Consiglio, Roberts, and Company to perform the angelic ballet number. With such a large ensemble filling the stage with talent, this production of West Side Story really feels like we were witnessing the original big budget Broadway spectacle.
Do not miss your chance to take part in this musical masterpiece. CTORA’s West Side Story plays only until May 24th at Granville Island Stage, 1585 Johnson Street, visit ctora.ca for details and tickets