The Jets and the Sharks are coming to town tonight.
“West Side Story,” which has more than 50 years of Broadway history, will begin 7:30 p.m. at John R. Emens Auditorium.
The musical shows the tale of Tony and Maria, who must overcome adversity from gangs and outside forces to be together. Sherri Contos, Emens associate director of marketing, said she believes this show will have a strong contribution to the success of the Artist Series.
“‘West Side Story’ soars as the greatest love story of all time and remains powerful, poignant and timely,” Contos said.
Sophomore speech pathology major Elizabeth Rehmer said she will attend the performance to see how the musical is done professionally.
“In high school, I was in “West Side Story” and [I] am anxious to see a professional company put it on,” she said.
The music performed throughout the production features recognizable Broadway ballads, such as “Something’s Coming,” “Tonight,” “America,” “I Feel Pretty” and “Somewhere.”
Contos said she is anticipating high attendance.
“We expect it to be a large crowd, because ticket sales are going well and this musical is very popular,” Contos said.
“West Side Story” portrays the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two gangs of different ethnic backgrounds in the Upper West Side of New York City in the mid-50s. Tony, a Jet, falls in love with Maria, the sister of Bernardo, who leads the Sharks. Tony meets Maria at a community dance and later, Tony goes to Maria’s balcony and professes his love for her — similar to “Romeo and Juliet.” As the play progresses, gang violence becomes more intense.
Contos said she believes bringing “West Side Story” to Ball State will be conducive to students’ learning while providing entertainment.
“This show is definitely entertaining, but it’s also significant in its social message of bigotry and gang-environment,” Contos said.
Rehmer said she enjoys the musical for the dancing and she encourages others to see the musical.
According to an article from the The Associated Press, the musical “remains Broadway’s best dance-driven musical. Five decades have not dimmed the extraordinary choreography or the score that pulsates throughout.”
Tickets are free in advance for students but are $11 at the door. Public tickets range from $36-$56.
What: “West Side Story”
Where: John R. Emens Auditorium
When: 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Students free in advance, $11 at the door; Public $36-$56
