West Side Story, the iconic tale of love and rivalry, is coming to Sault Ste. Marie.
The Musical Comedy Guild production runs from April 23 to April 26 at Sault Community Theatre Centre.
With a book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein, and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, the masterpiece of American musical theater tells the story of two rival gangs and their struggle for power and survival in New York City's Upper West Side.
“I believe West Side Story is a timeless classic, not only because of the music but also because of the hard hitting content,” said director David Dellaire in a news release. “Racial and cultural divide is an ongoing problem in the world 70 years on from when the musical was written.”
“The struggle for cultural integration and maintaining identity in every community is something we are still facing in the world. The classic battle between the Jets and the Sharks is something that still exists in our lives to this day. I think it is important to tell the tale of West Side Story because it is topical, and without talking about these issues and facing them, we can never work through them as a society.”
The cast of local actors includes Andrew Stuetz as Tony and Candela Harmsen as Maria.
The creative team includes Andrew Stuetz and Emma Dingle who both do double duty as choreographers and actors, set designers Ted McKinney and Nico McIntosh.
West Side Story is suitable for ages 13+ due to mature themes and violence.
Tickets are available at Station Mall Box Office or online at Saultctc.ca.