Review: 'West Side Story: The School Edition'​ at Rockville HS

A Cappies review of the performance of "West Side Story: The School Edition" at Rockville High School on Friday, April 12, 2019.

By Sophie Stapleton, Loudoun Valley High School

ROCKVILLE, MD — Cut the frabba jabba and get real about Rockville High School's performance of West Side Story: The School Edition; it was such a gas, the audience was jazzed the entire time! With all the lingo and pizzazz of the '50s, the students of Rockville delivered a killer show.

A modern twist on Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story tells the romantic, gut-wrenching story of Tony and Maria, a couple who falls in love despite being loyal to two separate New York City street gangs. The Jets, a white gang, and the Sharks, from Puerto Rico, are at constant odds; will Tony and Maria's newfound love prevail? With a book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein, and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, this classic musical was bound to be a massive hit. In its 1957 Broadway debut, West Side Story was nominated for six Tony Awards; the 1967 film adaptation was nominated for 11 Academy Awards and won 10.

The star of the show, Gabriela Sanchez (Maria) captured the audience's hearts with her sweet, innocent energy and angelic voice. By using her flawless dialect and clear understanding of character, Sanchez led the performance with power. Her commitment onstage created a beautiful chemistry with Jacob Lunsford (Tony) and enveloped the audience into the iconic love story.

Tony's right-hand man, Riff, played by Dylan Hawkins, lead the Jets with commitment, energy, and a total cool-boy attitude that was spot on. Completely opposite, but just as committed, was Genevieve Hill (Anybodys). Hill's spunk and childlike energy captivated the audience and caused them to root for her as she struggled to become an important member of the gang.

Rockville's pit orchestra also deserves recognition, as they shaped the show with their lively, soulful music. In songs such as "I Feel Pretty," "America," and "The Dance at the Gym," the orchestra, choreography, and students onstage carried energy and showmanship that was enjoyable to watch. A standout within the choreography was Katie Loebach, whose smooth yet precise movements captivated the attention of the audience.

In the words of Riff, you better dig this, and dig it the most: West Side Story's classic romance tale was absolutely brought to life on Friday night. As the lyrics in "Somewhere" reference the hope of one day reaching an unknown place of goodness, peace, and life, the students of Rockville High School should be confident in the fact that they have found that place - onstage.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Patch.