West Side Story
Recently Updated
West Side Story: A Timeless West End Classic
"West Side Story" is a landmark musical that redefined theatre with its fusion of raw emotion, dynamic choreography, and a score that resonates decades later. Conceived by Jerome Robbins, with music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and a book by Arthur Laurents, it premiered on Broadway in 1957 before crossing the Atlantic to London’s West End. Opening at Her Majesty’s Theatre on December 12, 1958, the show ran for 1,039 performances until June 10, 1961. A modern retelling of "Romeo and Juliet" set against the gritty backdrop of 1950s New York gang rivalry, its West End debut marked the start of a global legacy that continues to captivate audiences.
Origins and Creative Vision
The idea for "West Side Story" emerged in 1949 when Robbins proposed a contemporary "Romeo and Juliet" to Bernstein and Laurents, initially titled "East Side Story" and focused on Catholic-Jewish tensions. By 1955, it evolved into a tale of Puerto Rican and white American gangs the Jets and Sharks on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Bernstein’s score blended jazz, classical, and Latin influences, with hits like "Maria," "Tonight," and "America," while Sondheim’s debut lyrics brought poetic depth. Robbins’ vision demanded seamless integration of dance, music, and drama, a revolutionary approach that set it apart from traditional musicals of the era.
The Original West End Cast and Team
The London production starred American actors George Chakiris as Riff and Chita Rivera as Anita, alongside Marlys Watters as Maria and Don McKay as Tony. Many cast members reprised their Broadway roles, bringing authenticity to the transfer. Robbins directed and choreographed, with Peter Gennaro assisting on the electrifying dance sequences, like "The Rumble" and "Cool." Designers Oliver Smith (sets) and Irene Sharaff (costumes) crafted a vivid urban landscape, while musical director Max Goberman ensured Bernstein’s score soared. The creative team’s synergy turned the show into a visceral experience, earning praise for its intensity and innovation.
West End Premiere and Reception
Opening at Her Majesty’s Theatre, "West Side Story" arrived in London with buzz from its Broadway success, where it had run for 732 performances and earned six Tony nominations. British critics were initially divided some lauded its bold storytelling and choreography, with The Times calling it “a musical of rare quality,” while others found its violence and slang jarring. Audiences, however, embraced it, drawn to the tragic love story and infectious energy. The 40-week run was extended due to demand, solidifying its status as a West End hit and proving its universal appeal beyond American shores.
Revivals and Milestones
"West Side Story" returned to the West End multiple times, cementing its enduring popularity. A 1984 revival at Her Majesty’s Theatre ran for 336 performances, followed by a 1998 Sadler’s Wells production that toured to the Prince of Wales Theatre. The 2008 Sadler’s Wells revival, celebrating the show’s 50th anniversary, played the Dominion Theatre, while a 2019 reimagining at the Curve Theatre, Leicester, transferred to the Sadler’s Wells Theatre in 2021. Each iteration refreshed Robbins’ choreography and Bernstein’s score, with the 2019 version emphasizing immigration themes, reflecting its evolving relevance.
Global Impact and Adaptations
Beyond the West End, "West Side Story" inspired a 1961 film that won 10 Oscars, including Best Picture, starring Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer, with Chakiris and Rita Moreno as standouts. A 2021 Steven Spielberg remake brought renewed attention, earning critical acclaim. The musical’s influence spans theatre worldwide, with productions in over 30 countries and translations into languages like Spanish and Japanese. Its songs became cultural touchstones, covered by artists from Barbra Streisand to Metallica, while its dance-driven storytelling shaped works like "A Chorus Line" and "Rent."
Legacy and Cultural Significance
"West Side Story" remains a theatrical titan, celebrated for its fearless tackling of race, love, and violence. It won no major West End awards in its original run unlike its Broadway Tonys but its impact transcends trophies. The musical broke ground by elevating dance to narrative status and addressing social issues, paving the way for edgier fare like "Hair" and "Les Misérables." As of 2025, its blend of tragedy and hope endures, with its West End roots a key chapter in a story that still sings, dances, and fights for relevance.