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| At the center of the production's success is Broadway veteran Max von Essen, who is just about ideal as Tony: youthful, impetuous, idealistic and convincingly lovestruck. He possesses a smooth, clean, supple yet powerful tenor that makes the most of such great songs as 'Something's Coming,' 'Maria' and 'Somewhere.' By ~ Everett Evans For ~ The Houston Chronicle |
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| When you hear 'Maria' sung by the current star at Hobby Center, Max von Essen, it is unlikely that you will hear this long-time favorite in the future without hearing his voice in the recesses of your audio treasure chest. In addition to his vocal gift, he plays his part of Tony with skill and believable passion, as he meets the love of his life..... By ~ Gloria Smith For ~ Houston Community Newspapers Online |
| During intermission on opening night, two of the local residents stopped backstage to congratulate Max . |
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| Also surprising is Max von Essen's Tony, the beautiful tenor who sings his praises to his girl in the easy-to-learn lyrics 'Maria, Maria, Maria,' etc. By ~ Lee Williams For ~ Houston Press |
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| The greatest asset in this West Side Story was Max von Essen's Tony. It is difficult to imagine him bettered in the role, and he offered a virtual master class in performing Bernstein's songs. The young actor's breath control and technical security throughout his range enabled him to thrill audiences at full voice but also to sustain beautiful, soft-grained piano tones in 'Maria' and 'Tonight.' By ~ Christopher Weimer For ~ The Sondheim Review |
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