In a true show of magic and musical extravaganza, Jaxx Theatricals yet again presents a dazzling production in its premiere of Westside Story, music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. This youth ensemble specialized in exceptional dance and body movement, and each performer graces the stage with style and swagger.
What better time for the timeless story of Shakespeare’s star crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, now in the form of Tony and Maria amidst Manhattan ‘s gang ridden streets of the Sharks versus the Jets, where family loyalties and bloodlines run deep. Jayden Maddux seems like he was born to play Tony, and respectively, Brooklyn Morales, as Maria, impeccably belting out classics like “Tonight,” and “Somewhere.” This song and dance filled show keeps the audience glued to the stage throughout illuminating performances, despite a quite dark, stark melodrama with a tragic ending. This show is a culmination of hard work and dedication by the entire ensemble, under the brilliant direction and production of Jeremy Lucas, JD Morabito, and Charisma Zenetzis, and choreography by Jesus David Torres. The entire show, through song, dance, costume, and lighting, light up the stage, proving the big voices of these young talents. From the moment Tony and Maria’s eyes meet each other, the audience feels the future tension and palpable suspense fills the air. Despite their differences, they find that they have much more in common than not. Their goal is to make their families turn into friends and allies, rather than enemies, proving that love can conquer all. Apropos to rivalry and tension in the world still today, this story is timeless and resonant, truly universal. Love is in the air, as the younger, more enlightened generations try, to subtly change the tunes and views of their elders, yet to no avail. Anita (Fatima Martinez) is headstrong and loyal to her family ties, and is very credible in trying to sway Maria. A definite showstopper is the iconic musical number “Gee, Officer Krupke,” performed by Action (Stuart Kennedy); Diesel (Addison Chandler); A-rab (Max Sanders); Baby John (Henry Neujahr) and Jets, will be long remembered and hummed to, long after show’s end. Songs and numbers such as “Something’s Coming,” “America,” and “I Feel Pretty” bring a sense of nostalgia to musical theatre aficionados and newbies alike. The ensemble truly influences the captive audience to take the message of global and familial unity seriously. Through a true sense of collaboration between directors, producer choreographer, cast, and creative team, a strong sense of pride, morale and cooperation ensues in the entire production. A mystical highlight of the show is when the Tony and Maria unite, when Tony had thought Maria was tragically no longer alive, leaving hope in the audience for, despite apparently all odds, the power to use all might and muscle… to unite family… break bread together… with no guns in sight, to lay down all swords and shields, and talk of war no more. Two beautiful , rich cultures are joined as one , both tangibly through a piece of art or artifact, but also intangibly through lyrical song and lively dance movements. The end result is a mosaic of multi cultural merging, which exudes love of life, heritage, and history.
JaxxTheatricals deserves all kudos and recognition, as evidenced by the stars and starlets who shine on the Hollywood stage, and no doubt are headed to musical theatres on Broadway. West Side Story is a difficult show to “get right,” and Jaxx has beyond surpassed its dreams.
Bonnie Priever Curtain Up 