“Please note that this show contains gang-simulated masturbation.”
“Appropriate for ages 10 and up.”
Yep, those two sentences are in the official description on the web site for the Dallas Summer Musicals presentation of West Side Story. One excites, the other disturbs. But that’s what Broadway is all about – making parents answer uncomfortable questions about things that pop up in musical numbers.
The revitalized production of the classic Leonard Bernstein/Stephen Sondheim musical has been updated in inventive ways, but sticks true to the vibe of the 1957 original. It’s a crowd-pleaser (even though it’s quite a downer), and an ideal respite from the corndoggery and tilt-a-whirliness of the Texas State Fair. (By the way, if you’re planning to go to the fair and the show anyway, don’t buy a separate fair ticket. Your West Side Story ticket gets you through the gates the same day as the show. Bargain!)
West Side’s touring cast is, for the most part, superb, and despite some minor technical difficulties on opening night, the show is seamless. And though super-cute Kyle Harris as Tony, former leader of the Jets, doesn’t exactly scream “macho gang member,” he’s got a voice that would melt butter and a body that melts our heart. Why do the Puerto Ricans hate him so?
And at risk of going full Creepy Old Man on you, we must say that every member of the male cast is fascinating to behold. Skinny jeans do amazing things for a dancer’s build. Hubba-hubba, Daddy-O.
Ultimately, though, it’s the music from this 1950s update of Romeo & Juliet that makes for such a memorable evening. Not only did we feel pretty, witty and gay, we know that musical theater is just another reason we love to live in America.
So, come for the gang-simulated masturbation. Stay for some of the most beautiful songs ever performed.
Tickets: $20 – $85
(800) 982-ARTS (2787)
www.ticketmaster.com
Music Hall at Fair Park
909 First Avenue, Dallas
(214) 565-1116
Photos by Joan Marcus.
