MATUNUCK, R.I. -- Set in 1950's New York City, West Side Story is based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, with one important twist: instead of two rival families, Tony is a member of the American gang The Jets, while Maria's brother is the leader of rival Puerto Rican gang The Sharks. The two fall in love only to have their dreams destroyed by a rumble between the two gangs, which tears their world apart.
The Jets at Doc's Drug Store
Theatre By the Sea's new production of West Side Story has so much talent that it's almost unbelievable. The show itself is noted for its dance numbers, and Diane Laurenson's choreography does not disappoint. Additionally, the set design for this production is phenomenal. Kyle Dixon's sets are realistic, full of depth, and help bring the streets of 19050's New York City to life.
Bronson Norris Murphy is perfectly cast as Tony. He has an excellent voice which is full of emotion, and his version of Tony is full of heart.
Bronson Norris Murphy as Tony
Evy Ortiz is a wonderful Maria, and audiences are sure to love her performance in "I Feel Pretty." Murphy and Ortiz have great chemistry on stage, making their songs together all the more memorable'.
Evy Ortiz as Maria (left) with the Shark girls
Jean-Pierre Ferragamo brings much needed humor to the musical-tragedy as Officer Krupke. A Theatre By the Sea regular, audiences are sure to recognize his fine acting from past productions such as The Big Bopper in The Buddy Holly Story and Edna in Hairspray.
Long-time Theatre By the Sea performer Tom Gleadow is a charming Doc, the Drug Store owner who tries to help the lovers escape their fate.
Audiences favorites are sure to include "America," "Maria," and "Gee, Officer Krupke," as well as the many dance performances such as the "Dance At the Gym" where the two gangs face off during a school dance.
The Jets vs The Sharks at the Dance At the Gym
Dana Hunter as Anita and Alexander Gil Cruz as Bernardo during the Dance At the Gym
West Side Story will be playing Tuesdays through Sundays at Theatre By the Sea until July 16. Tickets are $47 to $67; for show times, please visit www.theatrebythesea.com or call the box office at 401-782-8587.
Photography by Steven Richard Photography
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