WEST SIDE STORY at 50 still full of timeless tunes.

WEST SIDE STORY opened over 50 years ago taking the musical world by storm. Presented by www.lpexpression.ca

From the moment we arrive at the Corona Theatre (2490 Notre-Dame west) we are entertained by street performers handing out programs as we wade through the lines of patrons to get our tickets, then to check our coats. More members of the cast weave through the aisles of the space in character, teasing the audience as we wait for the curtain to come up.

Under the musical direction of Daniel Ouimet a 24 piece orchestra breaths new life into this Broadway classic proving that Leonard Bernstein's music is timeless and Stephen Sondheim's lyrics are truly appealing to audiences of all ages and languages. The songs are so familiar to the ear that we even forget that they are being sung in French. And it is fascinating to hear how easily they are adapted to the language without loosing a beat.

The cast is vibrant and giving, and we feel their joy in performing these characters that most of us have seen many times on screen and TV, proving that a stage production of the original material is always better enjoyed live the way it was created to be presented. Director Philippe Gobeille takes few liberties in presenting a modernized version in this production; One is by adding some high aerial performers into the choreography which was appreciated by all and really appealed to the younger crowd.

Stand out performances are made by Nathaniel Siri as Bernardo and Jean-Sébastien Bonneau as Tony and Caroline Piché as Anita but it is Catherine Ouimet in the role of Maria that is absolutely amazing. She delivers every note to perfection and is surely a star on the rising. And this big guy managed to get a tear in his eye and a lump in his throat at the end. Over all the cast is interesting to watch and the choreography of Geneviève Lauzon and Joelle Métayer is as much a thrill to the eye as the music is to the ear. Which is essential in this heavily dance driven production.

Okay, so the sets and costumes remind us throughout that this is an amateur production, but this is easily forgiven by the pure energy and dedication of its hard working cast.

For those of you who don't remember, it is also very long (3 hours) so be warned to eat before the play. There is a 15 minute intermission. The venue is well suited for the piece and the bar appreciated as well.

Only two performances left: Saturday March 29 at 14h and 20h.

Prix des billets
Catégorie  A : 30$ (taxes incluses)
Catégorie  B : 24$ (taxes incluses)

Achat de billets
Les billets sont en vente aux  endroits suivants :
À la billetterie du Théâtre Corona

Sur  place au 2490 rue Notre-Dame Ouest, Montréal
(métro  Lionel-Groulx)
Par  téléphone au 514-931-2088
www.theatrecorona.com

Sur le Réseau Admission
Par  téléphone au 514-790-1245
En  ligne sur admission.com