Why you should see West Side Story
Hailed as one of the best Broadway musicals of all time, West Side Story changed musical theatre forever when it hit the stage in 1957.
Now, the iconic 1950s retelling of Romeo and Juliet is coming to Adelaide.
From a world-famous score to a timeless, tragic storyline, here are 3 reasons to see West Side Story at the Adelaide Festival Centre, from 28 November to 8 December 2019.
The story
West Side Story is a modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet, blending contemporary grit with classic tragedy. A turning point in musical theatre, its focus on social issues and themes of love, loyalty, and fate are still as relevant today as they were when it first hit the stage in the 1957 production directed by Jerome Robbins. The ground-breaking story (reimagined by director and choreographer Joey McKneely in 2019) explores tensions between two rival street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds, as they fight for love and freedom in a cut-throat 1950s urban jungle.
West Side Story is a modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet.
The score and choreography
Combining sophisticated music with extended dance scenes, West Side Story’s choreography and score are world-famous. Director Joey McKneely reinvigorates the musical’s choreography and staging, breathing new life into the streets of 1950s New York with dazzling dance numbers and slick set design. The original score (by Leonard Bernstein) and lyrics (by Stephen Sondheim) have been adored for generations, combining jazz, Latin rhythms and musical comedy. Popular songs include Jet Song, Something’s Coming, Maria, Tonight, America and Cool.
West Side Story’s choreography and score are world-famous.
The talent
Two-time Tony Award-nominated choreographer Joey McKneely has assembled an all-star cast, featuring some of Australia’s most promising talent. Standouts include Sophie Salvesani (playing Maria), Todd Jacobsson from Book of Mormon (playing Tony) and Lyndon Watts from Aladdin (playing Bernardo).
Joey McKneely has assembled an all-star cast.