West Side Story come to The Playhouse
THE Playhouse Company is staging the original Jerome Robbins production of West Side Story in The Playhouse Opera Theatre from 20 November to 29 December, featuring music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
The multi-award winning South African creative team is headed by director, Ralph Lawson, with set and costume design by Sarah Roberts, choreographed by Adele Blank with lighting design by Michael Broderick, sound design by Trevor Peters and musical direction/repetiteur, Andrew Warburton.
The production will perform to live accompaniment by the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Lykele Temmingh (alternate conductor Naum Rousine).
Bernstein’s prolific score for the musical includes I Feel Pretty, Tonight, Somewhere, Maria and America.
The story is set in the East 40s and West 50s of the Upper West Side neighbourhood in New York City in the mid-1950s, an ethnic, blue-collar neighbourhood. The musical explores the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds. The dark theme, sophisticated music, extended dance scenes, and focus on social problems marked a turning point in American musical theatre.
Commenting on the choice of West Side Story for The Playhouse Company, chief executive and artistic director, Linda Bukhosini, said: “We are very excited to be staging this all-time classic which showcases the exceptional talent we have in our country. The cast comes from all over South Africa and represents all racial backgrounds.”
The festive season run of West Side Story at The Playhouse comprises two previews on 20 and 21 November, followed by 35 performances which include Saturday and Sunday matinees. Ticket prices range from R100 to R150, with concessions for students and pensioners. Bookings are open at Computicket and tickets may be bought via the website, call centre, Computicket outlets or at Shoprite/Checkers money market counters.
