You have to admire the sheer guts of the New England Youth Theatre. They decided to present "West Side Story," they dealt head-on and upfront with the issues raised, they armed their young actors as best they could to handle the material, and then they bravely set about producing the show. Saturday's matinee was sold out, and I'm sure most of the other performances were as well.
The result was a damn good production. Time after time, I'm amazed at how confidently NEYT tackles tough assignments. You never have to sit in the audience and cluck to yourself, "Oh how cute of those kids to try that." They do it; they do it right; and they do it with passion and energy. You never have to check your expectations at the door.
NEYT's production was the real deal — all of the emotions, drama, passions and poetry were there, and the result was a sincere and effective take at the issues of racism, violence and tolerance the show raises. Sandwiched in between was some very fine singing, lovely dancing, sweet love scenes, heartbreaking sorrow and some very funny moments.
Considering the recent rasict incident at the high school — only the latest flare-up of what remains, sadly, a persistent problem — it was heartening to think these young kids might be training not only to become fine actors but community leaders who might someday help us break out of the racist ruts we can find ourselves in.
In the meantime, they can sure put on a fine show.