Sault Ste. Marie’s Musical Comedy Guild presents a beloved classic from April 23 to 26 at the Sault Community Theatre Centre.
“I believe West Side Story is a timeless classic, not only because of the music but also because of the hard-hitting content. Racial and cultural divide is an ongoing problem in the world 70 years on from when the musical was written,” said David Dellaire, director of the production.
The iconic musical tells the story of two rival gangs and their struggle for power and survival in New York City's Upper West Side.
Dellaire continued, “The struggle for cultural integration and maintaining identity in every community is something we are still facing in the world. The classic battle between the Jets and the Sharks is something that still exists in our lives to this day. I think it is important to tell the tale of West Side Story because it is topical, and without talking about these issues and facing them, we can never work through them as a society.”
David Dellaire is a seasoned stage and musical director. Having lived and worked in London England, David brings an extra breadth of professional experience to this production of West Side Story. Stage directing credits include Jesus Christ Superstar, Kiss of the Spiderwoman, La Cage aux Folles, Peter Pan, and various opera and concert performances.
“I am absolutely thrilled to be directing this production of West Side Story, especially as it was the first musical I was in, here in Sault Ste. Marie, some 30 years ago!” he enthused.
The production features a talented cast of local actors. Fresh off the White Christmas stage, Andrew Stuetz is both excited and humbled by the opportunity to share his passion for performance in the role of Tony. Candela Harmsen is delighted to play the role of Maria in her first local community show and Matt Stephens is a talented young actor making his return in the Musical Comedy Guilds’ West Side Story as Bernardo.
Emma Dingle is a seasoned performer and is excited to be back on stage to play the role of Anita. Dellaire commented, “Stuetz and Dingle also do double duty as the choreographers of the incredible dance numbers in this production!”
Musical Comedy Guild is grateful for the local sponsors of this show: Metallo's, Pharmasave, SooToday, and Oldies 93.
West Side Story is suitable for ages 13+ due to mature themes and violence. The curtain opens at 7:30 p.m. each night, and run time is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, including intermission.
Tickets, adults $45, seniors and students $35, and children $25, can be purchased here.
Dellaire finished, “The music in West Side Story is some of Bernstein's best. His use of musical motifs and his genius for making an orchestra soar is absolutely timeless. This is why West Side Story continues to be one of the greatest musicals ever written.”
Don’t miss this phenomenal musical theatre experience.