Review: IN THE HEIGHTS at Westcoast Black Theatre

Sarasota's Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe reveals a whole new look and feel with expanded casting and brilliant staging of their production of Lin-Manuel Miranda's In the Heights.

Those familiar with WCBTT performances know their history for stellar productions and this is no exception. Reminiscent of the ambience of West Side Story with a touch of the camaraderie of Rent, Lin-Manuel Miranda's In the Heights takes us to upper Manhattan's Washington Heights immigrant community on a sweltering 4th of July weekend. We join Usnavi (Michael Mendez), the local bodega owner who runs the corner market and through him get to know his neighbors who have come from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other Caribbean island nations seeking a better life in America. Abuela Claudia (Maite Uzal), a godmother figure to Usnavi, holds a place deep in his heart. To his nephew Sonny (Troy D. Wallace), despite his cockiness, Usnavi bestows his mentorship. On one side of his store is the local hair salon where you can get the latest gossip on everyone in the barrio. The salon employs Vanessa (Marissa Buchheit), the girl of Usnavi's dreams. On the other side is a limo service run by a couple that are proud parents of their daughter Nina (Nina Negron), attending college. She has the eye of their dispatcher Benny (Brian L. Boyd), to her father's disfavor.

These characters come to life as they struggle to survive an oppressive heat wave when the neighborhood suffers a power outage. The way they unite to help each other, work through their differences and resolve what barriers come their way is heartwarming and sometimes heart wrenching.

Much of this musical is delivered so authentically in Spanish, carefully respecting customs and traditions. In typical rap style, à la his Broadway blockbuster Hamilton, Lin-Manuel Miranda challenges his actors with considerable rapid dialogue and this ensemble was up for the challenge.

Likewise there was plenty of toe-tapping music and dancing throughout the production with an infusion of Afro, Spanish and Cuban renderings. Director/Choreographer Jim Weaver did a splendid job utilizing every inch of floor space.

The cast did an impressive job as an ensemble as well as the individual characters they portrayed. Special kudos to Michael Mendez for an outstanding portrayal of Usnavi. Mr. Mendez bore his soul and breathed life into his character with passion.

In the Heights runs through November 19, 2017. For more information visit www.westcoastblacktheatre.org.

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