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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.
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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Downtown Chicago TV & Movie Sites Tour
Roosevelt University Auditorium Building (11/19 - 1/10) | |
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Radius: The Songs We Wish We Wrote
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre (8/11 - 8/11) | |
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Rocky Peter - Welcome Home Concert
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre (6/8 - 6/8) | |
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The Hot Wing King
Alexandra C. and John D. Nichols Theatre (6/20 - 7/21) | |
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Buffalo Theatre Ensemble: Into the Earth With You
McAninch Arts Center (5/2 - 6/1) | |
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Judgment Day
The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare on Navy Pier (4/23 - 5/26) | |
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All The Best From Frank and Liza
Borelli's (5/18 - 5/18) | |
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