West Side Story - Jerome Robbins Flashcards
1
Q
What year did west side story premier?
A
Broadway = 1957
Film = 1961
2
Q
Where is it set?
A
- Mid 1950s Manhattan, New York and the rougher neighbourhood of Spanish Harlem
3
Q
What is the narrative?
A
Inspired by William Shakespeares play Romeo and Juliet, the story is set in the mid-1950s in the Upper West Side of Manhattan NYC. The musical explores the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds. The Sharks, who are recent migrants from Puerto Rico, and the Jets, who’re white, fight for dominance of the neighbourhood.
- the dark theme, sophisticated music, extended dance scenes, tragic love story and focus on social problems marked a turning point in musical theatre.
4
Q
What are the key themes?
A
- gang culture
- immigration
- love/loyalty
- revenge
- cultural identity
- Juvenile delinquency
