Congratulations to everyone involved in this superb production!

The spontaneous, thunderous applause at the end of each performance, 8^th-11^th February was well deserved by everyone who took part in, worked in and supported this production, cast, musicians, design, technical and backstage crew, World Challenge students, and parents and Friends of Penketh High School and of course The Performing Arts Teachers!

Special thanks go to Mr Alisdair Ramsay who really ensured this production was the best technical performance we have delivered! The brilliant music score set the atmosphere for a spectacular and exciting opening to the show; the slick beginning set the scene for the aggressive, balletic “When you’re a Jet” number! The effective use of levels from balcony to floor and  minimalist staging allowed maximum space for dancing and showcased the taut tension between the Sharks and Jets gangs and the anticipatory “Something’s coming”. The dance where the two gangs meet in the gym was lively and colourful, excellent choreography, fabulous dancing including superb energetic street dancing, created a dramatic contrast between the exciting atmosphere at the gym and romantic mood when the lovers first meet.

The chorus and dancers and all the principle actors were excellent and worked very hard on characterisation and accents.

A poignant rendition of “Maria” led to the moving balcony scene and the beautiful choreography of the lovely “Tonight” duet. One of the favourite, vibrant and atmospheric pieces, “America”, was both stunning and exhilarating and the upbeat, explosive “Cool” was well coordinated; a great contrast to the intimate “One hand,one heart”.

The building of tension between the gangs at the rumble and reprise of “Tonight” brought the first act to a spectacular climax.

“I feel pretty” presented a charming, colourful, lighthearted beginning to the second act and contrasted well with the scene when Chino brings bad news to Maria.

A beautifully executed ballet provided a sensitive prelude to “Somewhere” and the dreamlike, nightmare sequence “There’s a place for us”, a moving choral ensemble piece leading to a fantastic fight scene at the rumble!

The catchy, witty “Gee officer Krupke” gave the audience some light relief before “A boy like that”- superb duet excellently handled by the mature response of ‘Maria’ and ‘Anita’, making Anita’s assault more credible; the sustained tension was threatening and the atmosphere menacing.

The final scene, an act of violence just at the moment of reconciliation created a very moving and tragic ending, followed by the subdued and quiet exit of the cast.

“The dress rehearsal was a great success and showed the commitment and passion of all the students and staff who have worked so hard to produce another spectacular show!” commented Mrs M Baxter.

“I have had an amazing and positive experience with all the staff and cast involved who have worked consistently hard throughout the whole process. Thank you for making this another great Penketh High experience.” Miss S Parker.

“Congratulations to all the cast on a wonderful show! Once again you have done the staff, but more importantly yourselves, proud! Thank you for your hard work, time and creative energy! It has been a pleasure to work with every one of you!” Miss L Salisbury.

“You have all worked so hard to produce an outstanding show. You have really bonded as a team and have been supportive and thoroughly professional throughout. You are truly a credit to the school. Well done and good luck!” Miss D Platt.

“The students taking part in this year’s production should be extremely proud of themselves. They have worked in such an enthusiastic and professional way and are all extremely talented. You’re all stars and a pleasure to work with.” Miss G Twomlow.

“ I can’t believe we have done it! This has been one of my best experiences yet! You have all been amazing to work with and you should all be extremely proud of producing an outstanding show!” Miss A Buttery.

“Congratulations on such a fabulous achievement! You have worked so hard to produce a fantastic production and everyone of you has put in the blood, sweat and tears that has contributed to the event. I am very proud of you all..stars that you are!!” Miss L Oakes.