West Side Story, a modern Romeo and Juliet set against the backdrop of gang violence, is a powerful and timeless musical. The music was composed by the legendary Leonard Bernstein, with lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, a master of witty and insightful words. Arthur Laurents crafted the book, or script, breathing life into the characters and their struggles. The musical debuted on Broadway in 1957 and quickly garnered critical acclaim, winning a Tony Award for Best Musical.
The story unfolds on the tough streets of New York City. Two rival gangs, the Jets, a white American group, and the Sharks, a Puerto Rican group, clash over territory and simmering tensions. Maria, the sister of the Sharks' leader, and Tony, a former member of the Jets, fall passionately in love, oblivious to their gang affiliations. Their forbidden romance unfolds amidst the escalating violence between the Jets and the Sharks, leading to a tragic confrontation that shatters their dreams.
West Side Story's powerful music, with iconic songs like "Somewhere" and "America," combined with its poignant story and exploration of social issues, continues to resonate with audiences. The musical has been revived numerous times on Broadway and around the world, and a film adaptation won ten Academy Awards, solidifying its place as a classic of American musical theater.
Year | Category | |
---|---|---|
1958 | Best Musical | |
1980 | Best Revival | |
2009 | Best Revival of a Musical |
Videos
Chess: The Musical
Wheaton College - Watson Fine Arts (6/14 - 6/15)
PHOTOS
| ||
Grindr Help Desk: The Musical (an unofficial parody)
The Post Office Cabaret (5/26 - 9/5) | ||
Parade
Emerson Colonial Theatre (3/11 - 3/23) | ||
The Life and Music of George Michael
Emerson Colonial Theatre (9/20 - 9/20) | ||
Three Tall Persian Women
Shakespeare & Company (8/30 - 10/13) | ||
Kinky Boots
The Company Theatre (7/26 - 8/18) | ||
The Heart Sellers
Cape Rep Theatre (9/18 - 10/20) | ||
An Evening with Amor Towles
Emerson Colonial Theatre (9/24 - 9/24) | ||
VIEW SHOWS ADD A SHOW |
Recommended For You