Springfield, MO–Springfield Little Theatre (SLT) is pleased to present West Side Story at the historic Landers Theatre beginning Friday, January 19 through Sunday, February 4, 2018. Performances start at 7:30pm on Thusdays-Saturdays and at 2pm on Sundays.
Young lovers are caught between prejudice and warring street gangs in this seminal retelling of Romeo and Juliet written by Arthur Laurent with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.
The powerful, poignant, and timely musical explores the rivalry between the “American” Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks, two teenage street gangs in New York City. Tony, best friend to the leader of the Jets, falls in love with Maria, sister to the leader of the Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate and violence weaves an innovative, heart-wrenching, and relevant tale.
From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. The score is widely regarded as one of the best ever written. The dark theme, sophisticated music, extended dance scenes, and focus on social problems marked a turning point in American musical theatre.
SLT’s West Side Story features a cast of 57 and is directed and choreographed by Lorianne Dunn with music direction by Susan Gravatt. Performing the iconic roles of star-crossed lovers, Tony and Maria, are Tanner Johnson and Genevieve Fulks. Johnson, a student at Drury University studying Arts Administration and Vocal Performance, is making his Springfield Little Theatre debut. Fulks was last seen on the Landers stage as Doris Walker in Miracle on 34th Street the Musical. Since that time, she has performed as Young Maxine in Maxine’s Christmas Carol (Andy Williams Moon River Theatre), Susanna in Le nozze di Figaro (Opera in the Ozarks and Springfield Regional Opera), Zerbina in The Maid Mistress (Classical Arts Inc), and Madame Herz in The Impresario (Ozark Family Opera). Genevieve is a professional singer and actor and also teaches voice at MSU, Drury, and SLT.
West Side Story is rated PG-13. Tickets range in price form $16-$36. Group pricing is available for parties of 10 or more. Please visit www.springfieldlittletheatre.org to purchase your tickets and select seats 24/7. You may also call the Box Office at 417-869-1334.
Parents’ Night Out is offered on Saturday, January 20 for only $10 per child. Drop your kids off at 5:30pm and treat yourself to dinner before watching the performance. Or drop your kids off at 7:15pm just before you take your seat. Children will enjoy a full evening of theatre activities and can be picked up in the lobby following the show. Register when you purchase your tickets or add it on later!
Enjoy a Backstage Pass Experience before any of the performances for only $10. Observe company warm-ups prior to the show, take a guided tour backstage, and receive a signed poster and photo with the cast. Register when you purchase your tickets or add it on later!
Final Fridays Improv Night takes place on Friday, February 3 following the performance. Admission is “pay what you can”. SLT’s Teen Players present this hilarious, family-friendly program to raise funds for SLT’s education programs.
The Landers Theatre, SLT’s beautiful home, is located in downtown Springfield at 311 East Walnut Street.
Support for West Side Story is provided by Phenix Marble, Lezah & Ron Stenger Family, Mirowski Inspections, KOLR10, 104.1KSGF, and the Missouri Arts Council, a nonprofit state agency.
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