Westside Story was created by a
top team in 1957, Arthur Laurents (book), Leonard Bernstein (music), a
very young Stephen Sondheim making his first Broadway debut (lyrics) and
Jerome Robbins (director and choreography). In this production, Robbins
choreography has been reproduced by Joey McKneely. In 1961 a musical film
of Westside Story was made and won ten Academy Awards out of eleven
nominations that year!
The story is about the rivalry
between two street gangs in New York City, the Sharks whose background
comes from Puerto Rico and the Jets from New York City. Tony (Kyle Harris)
once was the leader of the Jets, and because there is real trouble between
the two gangs, he is persuaded to rejoin them. Tony meets Maria (Ali Ewolt),
the sister of Bernardo German Santiago), head of the Sharks and the two
fall in love. What destiny befalls Tony, Maria and the members of the
gangs is told in lavish music and fantastic dance. Other main cast members
include Michelle Aravena (Anita), and Joseph Simeone (Riff). They and all
of the cast members are superb in their roles as actors, singers and
dancers. The outstanding sets, lighting (Howell Binkley), costumes (David
C. Woolard) and the orchestra add to the mood of this smash hit. Songs you
won’t forget include (and may leave the theater humming are Maria,
Tonight, Somewhere and I Feel Pretty. Playing through January 2, 2011.
Highly recommended.
- Pantages Theatre
- 6233 Hollywood Blvd.
- Hollywood, CA
Tickets: Online at
www.BroadwayLA.org
, by phone at 800-982-2787 (ARTS), or at the Pantages Box Office and all
Ticketmaster ticket outlets.
Comments? Write to us at:
Letters@ReviewPlays.Com
