Fifty years ago, “West Side Story” set a new standard for stage
musicals, both artistically and thematically, and to celebrate the
anniversary, Illinois State University’s School of Theatre and School of
Music will present “West Side Story” April 5 through 15 at the Center for
the Performing Arts Theatre.
Playwright Arthur Laurents put tough, edgy language in the mouths of two New York street gangs; choreographer Jerome Robbins created exciting, high-energy, athletic dances; and composer Leonard Bernstein and lyricist Stephen Sondheim created an elegant, evocative, unforgettable score.
In addition, the subject of the love in the midst of street gang war and racism made “West Side Story” a groundbreaking, artistic triumph. The dark theme, sophisticated music and focus on social problems marked a turning point in American musical theater.
The Illinois State production will be presented at 7:30 p.m. April 5, 6, 7, 12, 13 and 14, with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, April 15. Tickets are $15 for the general public, $13 for faculty-staff, $12 for senior citizens and $10 for students. Tickets are available at CPA Box Office from noon to 5 p.m. weekdays, by phone at (309) 438-2535 online through Ticketmaster.
Loosely based on Shakespeare's “Romeo and Juliet,” the landmark musical follows Maria, a Puerto Rican girl, and Tony, the son of Polish immigrants, who struggle to keep their love alive amidst the violent actions of two New York street gangs. The themes of racial and cultural intolerance and the power of love come alive through a mix of superb choreography and the brilliant musical score.
“West Side Story” transfers Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet to the late 1950s New York. The love story of Romeo and Juliet becomes that of Maria and Tony. The feud between the houses of the Capulets and the Montagues become the battle between two teen-age gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. Juliet’s balcony emerges as Maria’s fire escape.
West Side Story debuted on Broadway at the Winter Garden Theater on September 26, 1957 and played 732 performances before going on tour. It was nominated for Best Musical in 1957, but lost out on the Tony Award to Meredith Willson's “The Music Man.”
