West Side Story at the NAC: I Had A Lot of Fun And I Think Most People Will.
On until March 18, at the NAC.
Last night, I went to the opening show of West Side Story at the NAC and I had a great time.
It was my first time seeing a live performance of West Side Story. I think I pretty much smiled the whole way through. Which may seem weird, because the show ultimately is a tragedy, but I was just too delighted by the music and the dancing not to smile (although, my heart strings were pulled in the right places too).
For me, this stage production is much more entertaining than the film, which I only saw for the first time this year. The story is also much more satisfying than the one on which it’s based — Romeo and Juliet.
Having said that, for the record, I should say the final scene, as scripted, is somewhat disappointing but, as far as I can tell, that isn’t the fault of this production. Also, on opening night, I didn’t think Evy Oritiz’s voice was strong enough for Maria’s songs, although she otherwise played the role nicely. In contrast, as much as I enjoyed Ross Lekites’s voice for Tony, I had a hard time believing he’s the toughie his friends claim he is. Even so, he was still fun to watch.
Overall, I really enjoyed the production and I had a lot of fun. I think most people will. This is definitely worth seeing and it only runs in Ottawa until March 18!
- Sterling Lynch
CABARET INCOGNITO: An Avant-Garde Revue East of Berlin: A Performance Worth Talking About.
ON TUMBLR
I’m looking forward to this. I already have my tickets for the Thursday night performance.
I don’t know much of anything about ballet, other than I like it. Based on the write-up and a couple of reviews I looked at, I think this will be fun.
Plus, Marie Antoinette seems to be all the rage these days. :)
- Sterling Lynch
I’m looking forward to Plosive’s production of Daniel MacIvor’s How it Works.
Two out of the three MacIvor play I have seen are entertaining, accessible and smart. In other words, very enjoyable.
Director Stewart Matthews has done some good work. I’m also a big fan of Michelle LeBlanc.
All in all, this production looks promising and I will be there opening night.
The production runs at the Gladstone Theatre, from October 5–20.
I’m a big fan of John Carroll — both his music and the guy.
When he plays with his band, it’s always a treat.
I’ve even seen he and band play at the Black Sheep and I can say — with the authority of experience — that it’s worth the ride out there. Take the bus and drink freely.
If John Carroll is new to you, check out his residency show at the Chateau Lafayette on any given Wednesday and pick up tickets for the bus, after you are duly impressed.
- Sterling
I’ve dropped in on the Improvising Musicians of Ottawa/Outaouais’ Sunday night concerts, more than once.
It’s not a typical musical event. It’s not a typical Sunday night event either.
I’ve always enjoyed it. They are a friendly bunch of organizers, too.
It turns out they are putting a festival together [Oct.5 - 6].
- Sterling Lynch
If the Sunday night event is any indication, it should be a fun couple of days.
A couple of Saturdays ago, I had an inkling to get my dance on, but didn’t know where to get my fix.
I appealed to Twitter and @orenmazor recommended Ritual as good choice for any given Saturday night. I will check it out in the near future, for sure.
What do you think? Have you been?
