West Side Story

We had to pay full price for the tickets to West Side Story (a rarity since we can almost always find a discount code for at least 40% off), but we felt this show would be worth it and we were right. Many things are terrific about this show--the dancers' crisp and precise execution of the original Jerome Robbins choreography, the incredible music accompanied by a huge Broadway orchestra, the colorful costumes of the 37 singers and dancers, and the innovative set design.
The two standouts in the show are the actresses who play Anita and Maria. Karen Olivo (the original Vanessa in In the Heights) is feisty and beautiful as Anita--she is fantastic in this part. Newcomer Josefina Scaglione is lovely as the young, innocent Maria, and she is in complete control of her crystal-clear, perfectly-pitched soprano voice. On top of that she is a natural actor and a wonderful dancer. It's no wonder that she was nominated for a Tony award.

We were both disappointed, however, in the performance of Matt Cavenaugh as Tony. Although he is handsome and has great chemistry with Maria, his voice is just not strong and rich enough for this role. We also found the male ensemble as a whole a little weak--it seems like the casting directors went for dancers, not for actors who could make their characters seem distinct or great singers. Great dancers they are, but something is missing; there is no edge to any of their performances. The show would have been richer if they had chosen dancers who were just as outstanding as actors and singers. The women really carry this show, and the performances of Karen Olivo and newcomer Josefina Scaglione, along with the chance to experience the incredible original choreography and the beautiful score of West Side Story make this a must see revival.