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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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The Thanksgiving Play
Ensemble Theater In Honor of Helen Zell at Steppenwolf (4/25 - 6/2) | |
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Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
Paramount Theatre (4/24 - 6/16) | |
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Chicago Cabaret Week 3rd Annual, 10-day Festival
Chicago Area Venues (5/10 - 5/19) CONCERT | |
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Act of God
Raue Center For The Arts (8/2 - 8/25) | |
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Meredith Willson's The Music Man
The Marriott Theatre (4/10 - 6/2) | |
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DRUMLine Live!
The Center for Performing Arts (2/15 - 2/15) | |
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The Hot Wing King
Alexandra C. and John D. Nichols Theatre (6/20 - 7/21) | |
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The Singularity Play
Jackalope Theatre Company (5/19 - 6/22) | |
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Romeo and Juliet
Gross Park (7/5 - 7/7) | |
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Queens of the Blues
Studebaker Theater (6/7 - 6/23) | |
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