West Side Story

Basingstoke Amateur Operatic Society

The Haymarket

Director Richard Cox’s youthful cast delivered a well-acted and particularly well-sung version of Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim’s perennial favourite. Based loosely on the theme of Romeo and Juliet, the warring Sharks and Jets form the backdrop to the doomed romance of two star-crossed lovers.

Lucy Killick sings beautifully as Maria, maintaining her Puerto Rican accent admirably and Tom McGreavy was a very creditable Tony. The role of Anita is a gift usually bestowed on the most talented female, and so it was here, with Luanssa Goodman outstanding. Connor McGrane (Bernardo) and Ollie Johnson (Riff) did well, but James Davies caught the eye as Action, as did Steve Havercan (Shrank).

Musical Director Trevor Defferd’s orchestra was excellent, costumes, sound and lighting were spot-on but Zoe Blackall’s brilliant choreography, with well-staged fight-scenes, was the over-riding memory of this vibrant show. Although, the ensemble’s finale rendition of Somewhere takes some beating. Runs until Saturday.

Alan Johns