Things are tense in New York's upper west side. The story of the Sharks and Jets unfolds as the University of Louisiana at Monroe's Visual and Performing Arts presents West Side Story.
"It's a commonly-known musical. It's an iconic piece," said director Robin Stephens. The musical has won numerous Academy, Tony, and Grammy Awards since it first opened in 1957. The story features a blossoming relationship between two people associated with rival gangs on the streets of Manhattan.
Cast member McKenna Giovingo feels the show captures story and struggle of immigrants of the time. "They are so excited and all about America, and the others are constantly berating them and putting them down," she said. The show carefully blends tension with touches of humor. "At the same time, there's alot of interaction, and my character (Anita) has several one-liners, and that's always fun," said Giovingo.
Performances begin March 26th at Brown Auditorium on the ULM campus. Tickets are available online or by calling 342-1414.
