VYT to Open 26th Season with WEST SIDE STORY, 8/8-24

Valley Youth Theatre (VYT) opens its 26th Anniversary Season with the original Broadway musical version of West Side Story at the Herberger Theatre Center from August 8 through 24.

"This is the fourth time we've produced West Side Story," said Producing Artistic Director Bobb Cooper. "The first two were in the mid '90s in the basement of Tower Plaza. This year, as in 2000, our performances will be at the Herberger Theater Center."

Alumna Katie Casey (nee Rex) has been involved in all four productions. She played Anybodys in 1995 and 1996, Anita in 2000, and is now co-choreographing the latest version with another VYT alum, Lucas Coatney, who had roles in the first two productions.

The current cast of 40 features 14 actors who have never performed with VYT before, including three adults in the roles of Officer Krupke (Kevin Ohlfest), Lieutenant Schrank (Peter Hart) and Doc (Mitch Etter).

"These talented performers come from New River, Surprise, Chandler and all points in between," added Cooper. "Most have rehearsed five days a week for seven weeks and the results will absolutely astound you."

Based on a concept by Jerome Robbins, West Side Story features a libretto by Arthur Laurents, music from Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim. The original 1957 Broadway production was also directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins.

Tickets to West Side Story start at $20 and are available online now at HerbergerTheater.org or by calling the Herberger box office at 602.252.8497.