Young love takes the stage at the Seton Keough High School in the form of “West Side Story”, the story of two teenagers in rival gangs who fall in love (Romeo and Juliet style) during the turbulent 1950’s in Manhattan, New York.

With lyrics from Stephen Sondheim and music from Leonard Bernstein, “West Side Story” captured the love of audiences in 1957, and has been a Broadway classic ever since. The film adaptation of the musical scored ten Academy Awards in 1961.

“West Side Story” follows the short-lived romance of Maria and Tony, respective members of the Sharks, a Puerto Rican gang, and the Jets, their Caucasian arch-rival gang. Immigrant Maria (Melody Connell) and all-American boy Tony (Mary Beth Bunting) connected onstage with great chemistry and believability. Anita (Jessica Harzer) stood out to the audience, and garnered the applause of the auditorium. Her vocal talent and wide range of acting skills were impressive and suited perfectly to the role.

Gang leaders Bernardo (Arielle Burnett) and Riff (Julia Middleton) played two sides of the same coin. Specifically, the rumble scene highlighted both of their talents as dramatic actors. Hazuki Tatsumi’s dancing as both a Shark and Jet was a highlight of the show—her grace and effortlessness was refreshing.

The ensemble divided neatly into the Sharks and the Jets. Notably, the Shark Girls, who performed the dance-oriented song “America”, were high energy, in sync and in character. The Jets were tough and cool, and played with comfortable ease.

One of the finest parts of the production was the mural, created by Carrie Carter. The lifelike depiction of an alleyway was versatile, and worked for many scenes, connecting the show throughout numbers. The lighting, operated by Mellissa Ames, Alex Miller, Carrie Carter, and Jordan Garrett, was simplistic and dramatic. It added to the production and took nothing away.

The Seton Keough School’s production of “West Side Story” is sure to be remembered. The energetic and exciting cast, along with the fabulous pit orchestra and quick stage crew, worked together to create a great show.

by Juliana Bauerle of Notre Dame Preparatory