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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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Marjorie Prime
Prologue Theatre (4/26 - 5/19) | |
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Funny Girl
Kennedy Center [Opera House] (6/25 - 7/14) | |
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The Matchbox Magic Flute
Shakespeare Theatre Company (5/21 - 6/16) | |
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Pasión y Fuego: The Music of Spain
Terrace Theater, Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts (6/15 - 6/15) CONCERT
PHOTOS
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Mummy in the Closet: Evita's Return
GALA Hispanic Theatre (5/9 - 6/9) | |
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The Elephant in the Room
Keegan Theatre (6/6 - 6/22) | |
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The Hatmaker's Wife
Aaron & Cecile Goldman Theater (6/5 - 6/25) | |
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American Psycho
Monumental Theatre Company (6/22 - 7/15) | |
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The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence
Arena Stage (6/6 - 7/14) | |
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Back to the Future: The Musical
Kennedy Center [Opera House] (7/23 - 8/11) | |
| VIEW SHOWS ADD A SHOW | ||
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