Salopian cast deliver incredible performances of West Side Story

In 1950s New York, two rival gangs compete for control of the streets.  

The Jets – written off as ‘the last of the can’t-make-its’ – seek to defend their turf from the incoming Sharks, who have moved to America in search of a better life. When a Shark girl and a Jet boy meet and fall in love, the tragic conclusion becomes inevitable.  

Bernstein’s classic musical updating of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ is a hugely ambitious undertaking for a school production. It is emotionally complex, musically challenging – particularly for the two leads – and includes virtuoso dance numbers, originally choreographed by Jerome Robbins and reinterpreted here by Mrs Stanhope and Mrs Newton. It was a challenge that the Salopian cast met with typical gusto. 

The Jets – led by Rafferty Y (R, LVI) as Riff – exploded onto the stage, bursting with energy and aggression. Their ensemble numbers were dynamic and engaging, providing brilliant cameos for dancers Cordelia H (MSH, IV) and Will O’H (Ch, IV). I particularly enjoyed the humour of ‘Office Krupke’ – a fantastic performance by Luke W (SH, LVI) as Action. Perhaps the most beautiful song of the second half is ‘Somewhere’, usually delivered as a solo, but performed here as an A Capella quartet arranged by Musical Director Mrs Cissone Hunter. Eleanor K (MSH, UVI), Zara B (MSH, IV), Billy G (SH, LVI) and Angus X (R, LVI) gave a haunting and poignant rendition of the song, which will remain with me for a long time to come.  

The Sharks, in their turn, are determined to make their mark and resentful of the prejudice they meet at every turn.  Led by Bernardo - Massimo W (PH, LVI) - and Anita - Hattie A (G, LVI) - they refuse to be cowed by the Jets. The famous fight sequences when the two gangs come face to face were breath-taking, including some impressive and truly terrifying tricks by the Shark dance captain Rebekah L (M, V).  

Meadow P (MSH, V) and Oscar N (Ch, LVI) were superb as the ‘star-crossed lovers’ at the heart of the show. Meadow’s soaring soprano beautifully conveyed Maria’s innocence and vulnerability, while Oscar’s mature and nuanced performance showed how Tony is torn between friendship and love.  

The final scene of the play, where Maria mourns her lost love, packed a real emotional punch – testament to the commitment and talent of the young actors involved. 

Dr Helen Brown

Deputy Head (Co-Curricular) and Director of Drama