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The French capital welcomes, starting Friday October 27 and for a ten-week stint, the iconic musical West Side Story at the Théâtre du Châtelet. This rendition aspires to honor its original version while highlighting its timeless and universal relevance.
Set against the dark streets of 1950s New York, the play blends snapping fingers, twirling dresses, fervent mambo rhythms and evocative backdrops. It portrays the tumultuous love affair between Tony and Maria, central figures of rival gangs: the Jets, European immigrants asserting their American identity, and the Sharks, newcomers from Puerto Rico.
Under the guidance of renowned American director Lonny Price, famed for his Broadway productions, the international ensemble—consisting of 30 multifaceted artists—performs hallmark numbers from the musical, including “Maria,” “Somewhere,” and “Tonight.” This musical masterpiece, born out of the collaboration between Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim in 1957, previously took Broadway by storm and was subsequently adapted to film twice.
Following a European and Asian tour that began in 2022, the ensemble will grace the Parisian stage until December 31 before moving on to performances in Rouen, Nantes and Bordeaux.
Price emphasizes the authenticity of his rendition, insisting on reverence for the original material. “If you honor the source material with skill and a stellar cast, there’s no need to deviate far from the initial vision,” he shares. He also extols the “wondrous score” and the “iconic choreography,” faithfully replicated by Julio Monge.
The work’s themes transcend its era. For Price, the performance probes the American Dream, xenophobia and racism. “The story is universal,” he asserts, and sadly, still relevant. This also resonates personally for Kyra Score, who portrays Anita, as her Puerto Rican grandmother underwent experiences similar to her character’s.
In conclusion, Lonny Price points out that at the heart of West Side Story lies the ageless tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. “Shakespeare’s work remains ever relevant,” he finishes, “Shakespeare truly excelled.”
With AFP.