West Side Story in Theater, 2021-2022 Performance Schedule
If there’s one word to describe West Side Story, it’s timeless. The musical that helped make Stephen Sondheim a theater legend has gone through multiple onstage revivals, two film adaptations, and many high school productions since it debuted over sixty years ago. And yet, it remains one of the most famous names in modern theater. After you watch the brand-new West Side Story film, released in December 2021 and featuring Ansel Elgort and Ariana DeBose, you’ll be more than ready to see the stage adaptation.
West Side Story plans to begin on February 2, 2022, in Lincolnshire, IL. The show will run through March 27th at the Marriot Theatre. Despite only being scheduled in one city at this time, we’re confident that this Sondheim classic will make its way to many other theatres in late 2022.
Stephen Sondheim passed away in late November 2021, leading Broadway and beyond to mourn the legendary composer and his most famous works. Into the Woods and Sweeney Todd were frequently mentioned, but West Side Story topped the Sondheim list of musical masterpieces.
It’s not easy to narrow down what makes West Side Story a timeless classic. Perhaps it’s the “Romeo and Juliet” inspired storyline set in 1950’s New York City but still holds up today? West Side Story was always ahead of its time. The show tackled issues like gang violence, civil rights, immigration, and interracial relationships long before it was socially acceptable to do so, and now you get to watch them all play out on stage in a new type of social climate.
On the streets of Upper West Side in the 1950s, two rival gangs called the Jets, and the Sharks are battling for control of the neighborhood. It gets more complicated when Tony, a former Jet, meets and falls in love with Maria, sister of Sharks leader Bernardo. In this adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, the two lovers struggle with their feelings for each other as tensions rise even further between the two rival gangs.
What ensues are top-notch dance sequences, intense and intricately-designed fights, and musical numbers that have stood the test of time. “I Feel Pretty” is a sweet tune that’s beloved by millions, although Stephen Sondheim stated on several occasions that the song was not his favorite. And then there are other world-famous West Side Story songs like “America,” “Tonight,” and “Gee, Officer Krupke” that put you up close and personal with these rival gangs.
Tony and Maria’s famous “Tonight” scene upon her building’s fire escape is a climax within the show, fueled by rage and romance to help you understand why West Side Story is one of the best musicals of all time. If you thought it blew your mind in the film, wait until you see it on stage in Lincolnshire, IL! Check the performance schedule below and get your West Side Story tickets now.
West Side Story 2022 Tour Dates
February 2 – March 27, 2022 – Lincolnshire, IL – Marriott Theatre Lincolnshire
February 26, 2022 – Austin, TX – Long Center for the Performing Arts
West Side Story tickets are available on the secondary marketplace, TicketSales.com. Stay tuned for more announcements!
