In what ways was West Side Story significant?
West Side Story was groundbreaking in 1957, in part because it put dance at the center of its storytelling and had operatic elements (including a tragic ending), but also for the issues it addressed: immigration, discrimination, evolving gender roles, urban neighborhoods in transition, disenfranchised youth, corrupt …
Why is West Side Story relevant today?
This endless cycle of violence is not lost on today’s society. Time and time again we can see how violence instills growing hatred, which leads to more violence. Though West Side Story presented significant and powerful messages about society’s flaws and shortcomings, it is not immune to making mistakes.
Who killed Riff in West Side Story?
Bernardo
In the midst of the fight, Bernardo kills Riff. Before the stunned members of both gangs can react, Tony, enraged at the murder of his best friend, picks up Riff’s blade and stabs Bernardo, killing him instantly.
What is the conflict between the Jets and the Sharks?
The sharks and the jets are rival gangs fighting for the same territory. Tensions rise as a shark girl named Maria and a Jet named Tony fall for eachother, but there’s a problem they can never be allowed to be together. The sharks are Puerto Rican immigrants. A rumble is planned and Maria pleades with Tony to stop it.
How is West Side Story innovative?
Narrative dances had appeared in musicals for many years, but the bold innovation of West Side Story is that it uses dance to tell most of the story. The whole conflict between the warring gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, is set up in the opening, through choreography.
In what way was West Side Story a product of the 1960s does the show still have relevance today?
HUDSON — The musical West Side Story was written in 1957, but it is as relevant today as it was then — as is the basis for the musical, William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, written in the late 1500s. It’s about racism, hatred of recent immigrants, violence, love, tragedy and, ultimately, hope.
What was the message of West Side Story?
Waldemar Quinones-Villanueva (Bernardo) emphasises that they are “sending the message of tolerance and love, and how hate is always going to finish bad and sad, there’s just no other way.” Also Kevin Hack’s (Tony) message is very clear “It’s a all about love, man.
Who are the main characters in West Side Story?
West Side Story. The young protagonist, Tony, a former member of the Jets and best friend of the gang’s leader, Riff, falls in love with Maria, the sister of Bernardo, the leader of the Sharks. The dark theme, sophisticated music, extended dance scenes, and focus on social problems marked a turning point in American musical theatre.
Who was the original director of West Side Story?
The original 1957 Broadway production, conceived, directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins and produced by Robert E. Griffith and Harold Prince, marked Sondheim’s Broadway debut. It ran for 732 performances before going on tour.
When is West Side Story going to be on Broadway?
A Broadway revival of West Side Story is scheduled to begin previews on December 10, 2019, and officially open on February 6, 2020, at The Broadway Theatre. It is set to be directed by Ivo van Hove, with choreography by Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker. It is being produced by Scott Rudin, Barry Diller and David Geffen.