From the first snap of fingers to the finale, Stage Experience’s West Side Story at The Alexandra Theatre pulsed with the infectious enthusiasm of youth.
This marked the 20th-anniversary of Stage Experience, the annual summer theatre project led by Pollyann Tanner, which offers nine to 24 year-olds from across the Midlands the chance to perform a fully staged musical after just a fortnight of rehearsals. Over two decades, its alumni has included comedian Joe Lycett and West End performer Liam Doyle, and this year’s production proved the programme’s enduring ability to nurture talent.
From the outset, the ambition was clear. More than 70 young performers and technicians brought Jerome Robbins’ iconic choreography and Leonard Bernstein’s demanding score to life. Big numbers – such as America, Jet Song and I Feel Pretty – filled the stage with vibrant movement and soaring voices, creating a show that was both colourful and exciting. The Dance at the Gym scene was particularly well done, capturing the tension and rivalry of the Jets and Sharks, while highlights included heartfelt renditions of One Hand, One Heart, Somewhere and Tonight.
I’m sure you know the story; an update of Romeo & Juliet set amid the street gangs of 1950s New York, where former Jet Tony falls in love with Maria, sister of Shark leader Bernardo. Their romance unfolds against a backdrop of prejudice and escalating violence that eventually leads to tragedy. First premiering on Broadway in 1957, followed by the 1961 Oscar-winning film adaptation, West Side Story remains strikingly relevant today, with its themes of racial tension and cultural identity still resonating.
Cree Henson was superb as a warm, charismatic Tony, bringing both charm and depth to the role – especially with his version of Maria – while Amelie Newton gave a sincere and poignant performance as his star-crossed lover.
At times, the exuberance of the large cast and orchestra tipped into sheer volume, making certain lyrics and lines harder to catch. Yet these moments did little to diminish the overall impact of a show brimming with energy, commitment and passion. And the more tender moments anchored the whirlwind of ensemble action with genuine emotional weight.
Stage Experience’s West Side Story was a fitting celebration of what theatre can achieve when it gives young people a professional platform to shine. And if this was anything to go by, Birmingham’s next generation of talent is certainly one to watch.
