Overview
Synopsis
Inspired by the timeless story of Romeo and Juliet, West Side Story takes Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers, and places them in the vibrant battleground of New York City’s West Side in the 1950s. In the midst of the deep-seated rivalry between the Puerto Rican gang, the Sharks, and the white gang, the Jets, Maria and Tony discover that ancient grudges are no match for true love. Their warring factions, however, refuse to back down, and the “rumbles”, romance, and resentment lead the bloody path to the lovers’ ultimate, tragic conclusion. With soaring, sophisticated, and diverse melodies, energetic and athletic dance battles, and its remarkably salient social message, West Side Story remains one of musical theatre’s most revolutionary and most loved treasures.
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Context
The creation of West Side Story was an extended process, involving decades of work, long periods of drought, and the collaboration of four of American musical theatre’s greatest standalone talents. The original idea for the musical came from director/choreographer Jerome Robbins, who wanted to adapt Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet into a musical about the conflict between and Irish Catholic and a Jewish family in New York, tentatively called
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Act One
The play opens with a balletic prologue, half-danced, and half-mimed, showing the growing resentment between the Jets, a gang of white “American” boys, and the Sharks, a Puerto Rican gang. Lt Schrank and Officer Krupke, fed up with all the violence on their beat, chase the Sharks away, leaving the Jets to plot a “rumble” with the Sharks (“Prologue”). The Jets’ leader, Riff, plans to challenge the Shark’s leader, Bernardo, at the dance that evening. He then plans to convince his
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Interactive Character Map
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Character Portrayals
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Monologues
Songs
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A song with an asterisk (*) before the title indicates a dance number.
Themes, Symbols & Motifs
THEMES
Forbidden Love
West Side Story reimagines Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet through the romance between Tony, a former member of the Jets, and Maria, the sister of the Sharks' leader Bernardo. Their love ignites instantly at a neutral dance but remains doomed by the deep-seated rivalry between their groups. Songs like "Tonight" and "One Hand, One Heart" capture the purity and idealism of their bond, portraying love as a transcendent force capable of momentarily bridging divides.
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“Maria! I just met a girl named Maria…”
Tony’s ecstatic outburst after meeting Maria captures the transformative power of first love. The repetition of her name elevates Maria into an almost mythical figure, symbolizing innocence and hope. Dramatically, this moment shifts Tony’s focus from his gang ties to a new personal destiny, foreshadowing the central conflict between love and loyalty.
“When you’re a Jet, you’re a Jet all the way…”
This anthem of the Jets underscores the theme of
to read our analysis of select quotes from West Side Story and to unlock other amazing theatre resources!Key Terms
A theme in theatre representing hope, success, and its disillusionment, particularly in realist and symbolist plays.
In musical theatre, the script or spoken text of the show, not including the music or lyrics.
A musical with a well-structured narrative that integrates songs, dialogue, and dance to advance plot and character development.
The art of designing and arranging movement sequences for theatrical dance and physical storytelling.
A non-literal theatrical scene representing a character's inner thoughts, fears, or desires, often surreal in style.
In theatre and film, the ingénue is a stock character representing a young, innocent, and often naïve woman, typically portrayed with charm and vulnerability. She is usually cast as the romantic interest, embodying purity and youthful idealism in contrast to more worldly or complex characters. The role often highlights themes of coming-of-age, first love, and the challenges of navigating adult society.
Short for 'legitimate theatre,' referring to traditional stage drama as opposed to musical or commercial performance. The term is also used to describe a classical vocal tone suitable for operatic or legit musical theatre roles.
A recurring musical theme associated with a particular character, idea, or emotion. Frequently used in opera and musical theatre, leitmotifs help reinforce narrative continuity and emotional cues for the audience.
The complete text of an opera, musical, or other extended vocal work, including all spoken dialogue and lyrics. The libretto provides the dramatic structure and narrative arc, serving as a guide for both performers and directors to align story and music.
The process of assigning musical parts to instruments in an ensemble. Orchestration helps shape the sonic texture and emotional tone of a score.
A musical number performed by five singers or characters, common in opera and ensemble moments in musicals.
The range of plays, roles, or musical works that a performer or company is prepared to perform. Repertoire reflects an artist's or theatre’s experience and identity.
The written music for a theatrical or operatic work, including vocal and instrumental parts. The score is essential for rehearsals and performances.
A musical notation indicating the number of beats in each measure and which note value receives the beat; essential in musical theatre.
A Tragedy is a form of drama that explores human suffering, conflict, and loss, often leading to a disastrous or fatal conclusion. Traditionally, the main character experiences downfall due to a personal flaw, poor judgment, or forces beyond their control. Tragedy aims to evoke pity and fear in the audience, leading to reflection and emotional release.
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Guide Written By:
Jason Engleman
Humming show tunes day and night.
