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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.
Tony Awards and Nominations for WEST SIDE STORY
| Year | Category | |
|---|---|---|
| 1958 | Best Musical | |
| 1980 | Best Revival | |
| 2009 | Best Revival of a Musical |
Videos
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Jubilant Bach!
Maryland State Boychoir Center for the Arts (6/2 - 6/2) | |
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Head over Heels
Maryland Ensemble Theatre (5/31 - 6/23) | |
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& Juliet
Hippodrome Theatre- France-Merrick Performing Arts Center (9/22 - 9/28) | |
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Anastasia: The Musical
The Scott Center for the Fine & Performing Arts (8/9 - 8/11) | |
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The Cover of Life
The Cumberland Theatre (9/5 - 9/22) | |
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The Lion King
Hippodrome Theatre- France-Merrick Performing Arts Center (2/12 - 3/2) | |
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Nevermore: The Imaginary Life and Mysterious Death of Edgar Allan Poe
The Cumberland Theatre (10/10 - 10/27) | |
| VIEW SHOWS ADD A SHOW | ||
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