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"When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way," as the song goes. Jets, Sharks, or adults, every cast member played their character all the way, dressed "up sweet and sharp," walked tall, and danced and sang like "the top cats in town," in this Upper School production of West Side Story.
This past weekend, ICSB’s Upper School brought the streets of 1950s New York City to life with two unforgettable performances of West Side Story. Powerful vocals and spectacular choreography captivated audiences during Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim's iconic songs, “Tonight,”“America,” “Somewhere," and more, while outstanding acting captured the heart of this timeless story by Arthur Laurents.
Directed by Mrs. Rebecca Lingenhoel, Ms. Luiza Sekkar, Ms. Hannah Hocutt, and Ms. Heather Endicott, the show was the product of months of dedicated hard work. Mrs. Lingenhoel and the students' dedication to deliver the best singing performance showed in one show-stopper after another. Her and Ms. Sekkar's work with the students on their acting was incredibly evident in the way they made these characters their own. Ms. Hocutt’s choreography paired with Ms. Endicott's costume designs made for stunning visual storytelling that transported the audience into the 50s.
It is such a joy to see the kids start from scratch with the dances and then see the final showpiece! It always amazes me at what they can accomplish! It makes me laugh when I first start teaching them and we spend 15 minutes on one simple eight count and they just keep going "this is so hard"...only to be able to execute professional level five minute songs without even thinking about it on show nights! Unbelievable talent, athleticism, and dedication to bring an idea into reality on stage!!
Ms. Hannah Hocutt, Director, Choreographer
Behind the scenes, the Technical Theater, led by Mr. Alex Konya (sound/lights), stage manager, Zsuzsanna M., and AV lead, Dániel L., ensured the show ran smoothly on the technical side of things.
Joe D. and Elly K.'s performance as lead characters Tony and Maria was truly a delight. With absolutely stunning vocals, believable acting (including Elly's impressive Puerto Rican accent), and good on-stage chemistry, the two took us through this retelling of the Romeo and Juliet story with grace and excellence.
Timothy M. delivered a moving performance as Bernardo, while Stephen B. shined as Riff.
Mei Mei H. stole the show as Anita. The list could go on and on. From leads to ensemble, each student brought passion and energy to the stage.
These students are a joy to work with. The final result shared was just the tip of the iceberg of what we have experienced on these 3 months: A time full of learning, compassion, love, and kindness. I am so proud of their hard work, but more than that, I rejoice that I got to work with such amazing talented artists.
Ms. Luiza Sekkar, Director
Congratulations to the entire cast, crew, and directors for using and cultivating their gifts to create such a powerful production.
Being a part of the Upper School Production is always a joy as I have the honor of working alongside an amazing group of students as I get to watch them use their talents and grow as performers and community members. "Whoever brings blessings will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered." Proverbs 11:25. I truly felt watered by working with these amazing students.
Ms. Heather Endicott, Director, Costume Design
What a timely and relevant choice this musical was from Mrs. Lingenhoel. The message of this story, conveyed so compellingly by our talented students, rings true today, in a time of division and hate around the world. May we be continually reminded that there is indeed "a place for us" with no more weeping, no more loss, but unity and peace. May we bring more and more of that place to this one by spending time with the one who wipes our tears. Through him, may we all "find a new way of living" and "we'll find a way of forgiving."
This year was really a joy for me as I worked with a wonderful group of co-directors who used their unique gifts to help to create a truly unified team. Our cast was amazing, teachable, gifted and hard working. The material we were working with was challenging in so many ways, but the students' maturity, vulnerability and hard work provided an experience that none of us will soon forget. I am thankful.
Mrs. Rebecca Lingenhoel, Director
