West Side Story
Based on a conception of Jerome Robbins
Book by
Arthur Laurents
Music by
Leonard Bernstein
Lyrics by
Stephen Sondheim
Festival Theatre Apr. 11 to Nov 8.
Opens: Jun 5
Duration: 2hrs, 27 mins
Photo of Paul Nolan and Chilina Kennedy
By David HouSupport for the 2009 season of the Festival Theatre is generously provided by Laura Dinner and Richard Rooney
Production Co-Sponsors
and
About the Musical
Two rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, wage a turf war in the mean streets of New York City. But when Tony, best friend of Jets leader Riff, falls in love with Maria, the sister of Sharks leader Bernardo, simmering tensions escalate toward a shocking finale.
With its explosive dance numbers and unforgettable score, this modern-day retelling of
Romeo and Juliet changed the face of the American musical.
Content Advisory Young love and gang violence are central to the story; however, the depiction of these elements is not unduly graphic. The street fighting is stylized and balletic; the passion of the lovers finds its expression primarily in song, though there is one brief and dimly lit moment of partial nudity. Fog and haze effects are used in the production, herbal cigarettes are smoked, and a gunshot is fired.
Our recommendation: Suitable for most ages but may not be of interest to younger children.
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