West Side Story

Definition

West Side Story is a musical that premiered on Broadway in 1957, created by Leonard Bernstein, Stephen Sondheim, and Arthur Laurents. It is a modern retelling of William Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet,' set against the backdrop of 1950s New York City, highlighting the rivalry between two teenage gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. The music, choreography, and themes of love and conflict reflect the innovative spirit of 20th-century classical music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. West Side Story features iconic songs like 'Tonight,' 'Maria,' and 'Somewhere,' which are still widely performed today.
2. The choreography was created by Jerome Robbins, whose innovative dance styles helped to convey the emotions and conflicts of the characters.
3. The show addresses serious social issues such as racial tension and immigration, reflecting the societal landscape of mid-20th century America.
4. In addition to its success on stage, West Side Story was adapted into a celebrated film in 1961 that won ten Academy Awards.
5. The score blends classical music elements with jazz and Latin influences, showcasing Bernstein's diverse musical background.

Review Questions

• How does West Side Story reinterpret the themes of Romeo and Juliet in a contemporary setting?
  • West Side Story takes the timeless themes of love and tragedy from Romeo and Juliet and recontextualizes them in the world of 1950s New York City. The story follows Tony and Maria, whose love faces insurmountable obstacles due to gang rivalries between the Jets and Sharks. By setting the narrative against the backdrop of urban conflict and cultural tensions, it highlights how societal issues can affect personal relationships, making Shakespeare's themes resonate with modern audiences.
• Analyze how Leonard Bernstein's composition style in West Side Story reflects elements of 20th-century classical music.
  • Leonard Bernstein's composition style in West Side Story incorporates various elements characteristic of 20th-century classical music, such as complex rhythms, dissonance, and diverse musical genres. He skillfully blends jazz influences with classical techniques, creating memorable melodies that convey deep emotions. Bernstein's use of orchestration further enriches the musical experience, allowing for dramatic contrasts that emphasize the storyline's conflicts and passions.
• Evaluate the impact of West Side Story on American culture and musical theater, particularly its themes related to social issues.
  • West Side Story has had a profound impact on American culture and musical theater by addressing significant social issues such as racism, poverty, and immigration. Its portrayal of gang violence and cultural identity resonates with audiences and sparks discussions about societal challenges. The show's groundbreaking approach to blending classical music with contemporary themes not only set new standards for musical theater but also influenced future productions to tackle more serious topics, contributing to a shift in how stories are told in this art form.

Related terms

Leonard Bernstein: An influential American composer and conductor known for his work in both classical music and musical theater, including West Side Story.

Musical Theater: A theatrical form that combines songs, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance to tell a story, which is exemplified by West Side Story.

Broadway: A famous theater district in New York City known for its large-scale productions, including many iconic musicals like West Side Story.