How I would make “West Side Story”.

Yesterday I picked up amNewYork newspaper and found there a review of “West Side Story” on Broadway. In my surprise the reviewer (Matt Windman) had the same opinion with me at many points. Especially about one of the lead roles- the role of Tony.

Let me quote what Matt Windman wrote about Matt Cavenaugh as Tony: “Matt Cavenaugh is miscast as Tony, looking far too clean-cut and aged for the role and singing in an ugly vocal style”.

Well, as we can see there is not me the only person who thinks that Tony doesn’t match the role and has problems with vocal.

The next quote: “West Side Story” is a dated but great show. Unfortunately, Laurents’ ego ruined it”.

Director Arthur Laurents also wrote the show’s book. Yes he knows the show and he’s part of the show (one of the creators). But why he directed it so badly? I remember I saw an article in Playbill about the production of “West Side Story”. So he (Laurents) told there he wanted to do some changes because he didn’t see the point of doing a revival unless something was changed in the show. Well, changes definitely were made. But what kind of changes? Wrong lead actor, bad directing, unnecessary Spanish, no energy, fell of the emptiness on stage because of the sets and uninspiring lights. Maybe this production should have been offered to direct to some young and fresh director who could make real changes which would be a plus, but not a minus?

What would I do if I were producer or director? First of all I would cast great actors who look (at least) as teenagers with great vocal and dance skills. Then I would make sure that the sets look great and there is no feel of emptiness on stage. I would make sure that directing is good so audience can feel this youth energy, passion, feel of being in love for the first time, this time full of emotions and desperate acts. Then I would add amazing light design which can increase these feelings. After this I would make sure that when I watch the show I feel this energy for which I love live Broadway musicals (and other audience members feels the same). And only then I would set up preview dates.