Arts Review

West Side Story @ The Queensland Conservatorium

What better way is there to celebrate the Queensland Conservatorium’s 60th anniversary than by reuniting the Jets and the Sharks for a little gang-warfare? West Side Story–one of theatre’s most celebrated accomplishments–which also  coincidently turns 60 this year, was brought to life by a talented cast of over 90 Griffith University musical theatre students.

 

Directed by Kris Stewart and accompanied by the Conservatorium Symphony Orchestra, this is an impressive collaboration like no other. As a modern adaption of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, we do not lay our scene in fair Verona, but rather on the blue-collar streets of New York City, where rival gangs struggle for territorial power.

 

The minimalist set design incorporated industrial elements to enhance the raw theme of this production, while providing a solid foundation for the colourful costumes to come to life. Special mentions go to ‘Maria’ played by energetic soprano, Courtney Monsma, who took her vocals to the incredible heights the role demanded. Additionally, Tony’s rendition of Maria, played by Elliot Baker was a personal standout. Baker’s impressive vocal ability had the audience captivated for the entirety of his sweet serenade. While all lead actors performed exceptionally well, the success of this production was undoubtedly due to a collaborative effort. A round of applause extends to the entire ensemble for their flawless choreography and timing throughout all of the dance numbers.

 

Set in a world filled with hate, violence and prejudice, West Side Story is still one of the most  innovative and relevant musicals of our time. Tickets for the Queensland Conservatorium’s production of West Side Story have completely sold out.

 

By Tara Gosling 

Reviews

Quick Listens

Sasha Čuha: about 'Svetozar!' & electric gusle

4ZZZ's interview with Kevin Borich

4ZZZ's radio drama 'Connie' by Joel Quick

4ZZZ's radio drama 'Morph' by Kathryn Rothe

Opera at 4ZZZ with Milijana Nikolic, mezzo-soprano & Rosario La Spina, tenor

LISI + QLD SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Join Forces

TWO DIVAS: Eva Kong & Asabi Goodman in Jazz meets the Opera concert

Voice acting by artist Ri McLean: radio drama 'Return' by Stephen Gale

Synthony hitting Riverstage Brisbane

Bardon Community Markets

SuburbiaSuburbia: Rock MUSIC, ART and SATIRE from the AU Suburbs

'My Gypsy Soul' show - Milijana Nikolic & Zokki Bugarski

Crowd Control: Stand up comedy improv competition

Aunty Donna interview: Brisbane show in Oct 2021

Eurovision Song Contest 2021 - review by Blair Martin

Gina Vanderpump - Miss Sportsman Hotel

4ZZZ's 45th Birthday special by Alex Oliver

Nazo Nazarian interview: music, culture & history

Opera Gala Concert in Brisbane: Life, love, passion

Oskar & Andy interview The Immigrants: 4ZZZ subscriber band

El Vito by Marina Poša

4ZZZ Interview: GLOBAL BANDEMIC: Worldwide Free Live Stream event

HOTA Takes Their Rage Online: Interview with Virginia Hyam, HOTA Head of Programming

Interview with Criena Gehrke CEO at HOTA about HOTA Artist Fund – Rage Against The V(irus)

Jack Vidgen - Eurovision: Australia Decides 2020

Jaguar Jonze - Eurovision: Australia Decides 2020

Mitch Tambo - Eurovision: Australia Decides 2020

Didirri - Eurovision: Australia Decides 2020

iOTA - Eurovision: Australia Decides 2020

Boban Markovic Orkestar on Balkan Beats Zed Digital / 4ZZZ

LIVE
100