WEST SIDE STORY Book by Arthur Laurents | Music by Leonard Bernstein | Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim Based on a Conception of Jerome Robbins | Based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet
An unforgettable score. A love story that transcends time. West Side Story is one of the most powerful and poignant musicals ever created. Inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this groundbreaking production transports the classic tale to the gritty streets of 1950s New York City, where the “American” Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks battle for control. Through breathtaking choreography, stirring lyrics, and one of the most celebrated scores in Broadway history by Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim, this tale of love, loss, and hope remains as relevant today as it was at its debut.
THE JETS Tony ● Vocal: Tenor ● Dance: Light movement ● Lead role; former Jet, in love with Maria Riff ● Vocal: Baritone/Tenor ● Dance: Strong dancer ● Jet leader, Tony’s best friend Action, A-Rab, Baby John, Diesel, Snowboy, etc. ● Vocal: Ensemble (Tenor/Baritone range) ● Dance: Strong dancers ● Jet gang members Anybodys ● Vocal: Ensemble ● Dance: Light movement ● Tomboy outsider seeking Jet acceptance Jets Girls ● Vocal: Ensemble ● Dance: Strong dancers ● Friends of Anita and Maria
PUERTO RICAN WOMEN Maria ● Vocal: Soprano ● Dance: Light movement ● Lead role; in love with Tony Anita ● Vocal: Mezzo-Soprano ● Dance: Strong dancer ● Bernardo’s girlfriend; major supporting role Shark Girls ● Vocal: Ensemble ● Dance: Strong dancers ● Friends of Anita and Maria
SPOKEN ROLES Doc, Schrank, Krupke, Glad Hand ● Vocal: Non-singing ● Dance: None ● Adult character roles (ages 30–65); speaking roles only