WOW! What a brilliant show – which was a better production than some of the professional versions I have seen, and certainly I enjoyed it more.

Leading the cast and, as always, giving an immaculate performance, was Claire Worboys, as Maria: her acting and singing were spot on and a joy to watch.

I had only seen Rich Walker as pantomime dame previously, so it was a real pleasure to see him in a serious role (Tony), and to hear him sing beautiful songs so well.

As I write this I can still see/hear him performing Maria. He was well supported by the rest of the jets, especially Samuel Wall (Riff) who was also notable.

I remember being impressed with James Skidmore when he was in a child’s role, and he has lived up to his potential with an outstanding performance as Bernardo.

The dancing routines were unbelievable – and many thanks must go to director/choreographer Jane Bennett and leading dancer Kathryn Painter.

The fight scenes were especially remarkable and so realistic. Again, very clever choreography.

There were no poor performances, and a cast too numerous to mention everyone, but there were also excellent performances by Toni-Jayne Bouncer (Anita), Scott Denton (Chino), Lily Maffei (Anybodys), two superb cameos from Darren Richards, and strong support from Tom Paine, Daniel Richards and Paul Standing as gang members.

One name not even in the programme was 14-year-old Rachel Howles, daughter of musical director David, who took the solo in Somewhere at short notice and sang it beautifully.

Always a show-stopper, America was outstanding, and One Hand, One Heart so beautiful. The final scene was so tenderly done that I am sure a lump came into every throat in the auditorium – it certainly did in mine, I could happily watch this version of WSS again. VJS.