4 out of 5 stars

Paper Mill Playhouse chose to end its season with a “pow!” That’s a refrain you often hear in “West Side Story,” the monumental 1957 musical by Jerome Robbins (direction, choreography), Arthur Laurents (book), Leonard Bernstein (music) and Stephen Sondheim (lyrics, his Broadway debut). Yes, the Jets and Sharks are back, in a production following the original Robbins direction and choreography. The cast doesn’t nail every step or character nuance, but the vocals from Noah Henry (Tony) and Sarah-Anne Martinez (Maria), all-around talent of Mikaela Secada (Anita), rich scenic design and great orchestra contribute to a rewarding night of classic theater. — Ryan Kinkade

At Paper Mill Playhouse (Millburn, N.J.), through June 28, 2026; papermill.org. (Review date: June 15, 2026)