Best remembered as one of the greatest musicals of all time, West Side Story brings together an unforgettable evening of music and dance. With world-famous scores on the agenda, the musical will get you grooving to tracks such as ‘Maria’, ‘Tonight’, ‘Somewhere’, ‘America’ and ‘I Feel Pretty’ amongst others. The brilliant storytelling and staging features Australia’s most talented troupe of actors, who light up the show with their intense zeal and passion for dance. Considered as a timeless masterpiece, witness first-hand, the collaboration between Leonard Bernstein, Arthur Laurents, Stephen Sondheim and Jerome Robbins, who’ve woven together the magic of this musical unlike another.
About the Show
A modern retelling of the age-old classic, Romeo & Juliet, West Side Story is set in the Upper West Side neighbourhood in New York City during the mid 1950’s. After gaining immense popularity as a Broadway musical, the adaptation went on to earn accolades around the world. The score by Leonard Bernstein and verses by Stephen Sondheim are generally viewed as among the best composed. Keeping the cast fresh, the musical has found popularity in various mediums — including professional theatres across the world. With remarkable orchestration and choreography, the show is an impressive showcase of talent and passion, making it one of the greatest musicals of all time.
The Story
Spinning the timeless Romeo & Juliet’s tale into a contemporary one, West Side Story revolves around star-crossed lovers caught in a mob-war. Set in the rustic backdrop of New York city’s west side, the musical dates back to the 1950s, in the midst of a deep-seated rivalry between Puerto Rican gang — The Shark and the white gang — the Jets. Despite their surroundings, Tony and Maria discover that grudges are no match for true love.
However, the war between these two gangs goes down a bloody path which ultimately leads to the infamous tragic conclusion. With soul-stirring melodies and energetic dance-offs, the tale ends up giving a notable social message out to its viewers. Join Maria & Tony as they sweep you along on a journey of love, resentment, and passion with their performance in the stellar West Side Story.
Practical Info
Show Details
The West Side Story will run at the Sydney Opera House from 16th August 2019 to 6th October 2019.
Show Timings
Varies. Check calendar for available dates.
Duration
2 hours 20 minutes, with one intermission.
Leading Roles
Todd Jacobson as Tony
Sophie Salvesanoi as Maria
Chloé Zuel as Anita
Noah Mullins as Riff
Directed by
Joel McKneely
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Audience
The show is suitable for audiences of the age of 12 years and above.
Available Facilities
Wheelchair Accessible
Elevators
Bars
Restaurants
Restrooms
Seating
The Joan Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera House has a seating capacity of 1,507.
Outside Food
Strictly prohibited. Gluten-free, dairy-free and vegetarian food options will be available at the venue.
West Side Story Sydney Opera House Tickets
Looking for West Side Story Sydney Opera House tickets?
Have a look at the real-time seat availability and prices of different sections for West Side Story. Select the date that you would like to watch the show and check out the seats available for that day. You can filter the seats as per your desired price range and purchase tickets directly.
West Side Story - Sydney Opera House Ticket Prices
Circle C: AU$ 69 onwards
Circle B: AU$ 109 onwards
Circle A: AU$ 149 onwards
Circle Premium: AU$ 229 onwards
Performance
The 20th century American adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet, West Side Story has had 732 performances since 1957. It became the longest running musical in Broadway history in 2010, after its 733rd performance was held at the Palace Theatre. Today, the musical continues to run in different cities in various countries — including Germany, Sydney, Canberra as well as Adelaide.
Awards
West Side Story was nominated for 30 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, beginning from 1958. The musical was also awarded a Tony for Best Choreography, Best Scenic Design and Best Performance by an Actress in a featured role in a musical.
Critic Reviews
“Stephen Sondheim's lyrics and especially Leonard Bernstein's music still blaze a trail like shooting stars in the musical theatre night sky. Sondheim's contribution to America and Bernstein's to A Boy Like That flirt with genius, and Donald Chan's expert direction of the Opera Australia Orchestra drove home the drama and ingenuity of Bernstein's incidental and ballet music.”
– The Sydney Morning Herald
“This is a West Side Story that embraces all that made the musical irresistible in the first place. It’s even irresistible from under a soggy poncho."
– TimeOut
FAQs
Q: What time should I arrive at Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House?
A: Doors to the Joan Sutherland Theater will open 30 minutes before the show. Please arrive before the doors are open to avoid the last-minute rush.
Q: Can I take photographs or videos of the show?
A: The use of cameras (still and video) and sound recorders is not allowed inside the theatre. Prior permission is required in case of professional use.
Q: What do I wear to the show?
A: There is no formal dress code at the Joan Sutherland Theatre. However, you are requested to be discreet with your clothing choices as this is an opera show.
Q: Is it possible to cancel/amend my tickets in case I'm unable to attend the show?
A: For groups smaller than 8, cancellation is possible up to 48 hours in advance.
