'West Side Story' opens new chapter in Shanghai
As the year draws to a close, music lovers in Shanghai can enjoy the iconic Broadway show that a generation in the West grew up on, “West Side Story.”
Dubbed “a splendid and super-modern musical drama,” it is a timeless show which marked a turning point in American musical theater with its dark themes, sophisticated music, extended dance scenes and its sharp focus on social problems.
After its premiere on stage in 1957, it was made into an Oscar-winning film just a few years later in 1961.
Set in the Upper West Side neighborhood of New York in the mid-1950s, “West Side Story” focuses on the rivalry between two gangs named the Sharks and the Jets and the destruction that results from their rivalry and fighting.
At the same time it tells the love story between Tony, a former member of the Jets and best friend of the gang’s leader, and Maria, the sister of the leader of the Sharks. It is, essentially, a 1950s New York version of “Romeo and Juliet.”
The music came from Leonard Bernstein and features classics such as “Something’s Coming,” “Maria,” “Jet Song” and “I Feel Pretty.”
This is the first time “West Side Story” will appear in Shanghai.
It was nominated for 6 Tony Awards and won 10 Academy Awards.
Date: November 23 to December 6, 7:30-10:30pm
Tickets: 200-1,000 yuan
Venue: Shanghai Culture Center
Address: 225 Shaanxi Rd S.
陕西南路225号