The 2016/17 season kicks off by bringing Shakespeare to CenterStage with the modern day Romeo and Juliet American classic, West Side Story, July 7-24. Cultural Arts and Ideas Director John Leffert said he’s excited about opening the season with this show.
“West Side Story is Stephen Sondheim’s timeless piece on young love and the good and bad that comes along with it,” Leffert said.
In the musical, Stephen Sondheim debuted his ability to magically bring lyrics to life as the audience is introduced to two street gangs in the Upper West Side of New York City in the mid-1950s.
The musical follows the feud of two different ethnic groups while weaving in the power of love. Tony, a former member of the predominately white gang, the Jets, falls in love with Maria, the sister of the Puerto Rican “Sharks” gang leader.
The quarrel escalates as Tony and Maria’s relationship ignites. Maria, who is engaged to be married to a Shark gang member, and Tony find themselves wanting a simple and happy future together. But, as in Romeo and Juliet, murder, deception and ultimately, death ensues.
The incredible actors of CenterStage bring West Side Story to life in this classic love story that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.
The musical intricately showcases social differences and marked a turning point in American theatre. The original 1957 Broadway production ran for 732 performances before touring and was nominated for six Tony Awards including Best Musical. Later turned into a film, West Side Story was nominated for 11 Academy Awards and won 10.
The Washington Post said West Side Story is “Not just any night! West Side Story is exhilaratingly danced and sung. A one-of-a-kind musical!”
The show opens on Thursday, July 7, at 7:30 p.m. and runs through Sunday, July 24, at 2 p.m.
“With our professional crew members, you’re always going to get the highest quality shows at CenterStage,” Leffert said. “We really are opening minds one act at a time.”
Don’t miss out on all the great shows that CenterStage has to offer. Become a season subscriber today and choose from five or six shows. Season subscribers receive priority seating, save 20 percent on the price of tickets and receive discounts to other J Arts & Ideas events. Subscribe today by contacting The J at 502-459-0660.
CenterStage 2016/17 Season:
West Side Story – July 7-24
Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Sept. 15-25
Assassins – Oct. 27-Nov.13
Funny Girl – Jan. 26-Feb. 12, 2017
Disney’s Mary Poppins – March 16-April 2, 2017
Sondheim on Sondheim – May 11-21, 2017
