West Side Story takes off at the Lyric Opera House

When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way, from your first cigarette, to your last dyin' day! The Lyric Opera House erupted with explosive energy as the cast of West Side Story took to the massive stage. This classic tragic tale entertained the audience from the opening song to the tragic ending.

I highly recommend seeing this incredible show that runs now through June 25th. I truly enjoyed all the voices but was especially impressed with the leads. Making their Lyric debuts, Ryan McCartan and Kanisha Feliciano portray the star-crossed lovers Tony and Maria. They deliver a chemistry on stage that stops time around them. Other stand-out performances include Yurel Echezarreta as Bernardo, Amanda Castro as Anita, and Brett Thiele as Riff.

This Broadway musical masterpiece features the music of Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, Arthur Laurents's book, with Jerome Robbins's bold and iconic dances. This show has always held a special place in my heart, and the Lyric production blew me away. It's one of the most unforgettable musical theater experiences I've had in a long time.

The sets were remarkable. I felt like I was hanging on a street corner in New York City. The dance numbers were full of energy and choreographed perfectly. Conductor James Lowe brings a tender flow to the orchestra music but doesn't hesitate to punch it up when necessary.

This timeless tale of boy meets girl will not have a happy Hollywood ending. In fact, the same issues that Tony and Maria encounter in the show still exist today. I wish that love could conquer all, but tragedy must strike these teens to initiate change. It's a moving show, and I hope it reaches just one person to remind them how precious life is.

Internationally distinguished theater and opera director Francesca Zambello returns to the Lyric with the revival of her production of West Side Story, featuring the original choreography from the Broadway premiere recreated by Emmy Award-winning choreographer Joshua Bergasse. Set designs are by Peter J. Davison, with costumes by Jessica Jahn and lighting designed by Mark McCullough.

• Performance dates for West Side Story are June 2-25. All performances take place at the Lyric Opera House, 20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago.
  
  
• Running time is two hours and thirty minutes, including one intermission.
  
  
• For tickets and information, call 312.827.5600 or go to lyricopera.org/westsidestory
  

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