If you go
› What: “West Side Story”› Where: Robert Kirk Walker Theatre in Memorial Auditorium, 399 McCallie Ave.› When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, March 31 and April 7, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, April 1 and 8.› Admission: $29› For more information: www.cdoorent.com/boxoffice
Keegan Chitwood and Emma Badger play star-crossed lovers Tony and Maria in "West Side Story."
"West Side Story," the classic musical of star-crossed lovers from rival street gangs in 1950s New York, will open Friday, March 31, for six performances by Southeastern Theatrical Support, known as SeTS. The production will be held in the Robert Kirk Walker Theatre of Memorial Auditorium.
SeTS is a sister company of already-established theatrical company Closed Door Entertainment, says JC Smith, director. This production will feature actors, singers and dancers from the Chattanooga and North Georgia areas.
In "West Side Story," two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the American Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Keegan Chitwood and Emma Badger are playing the leads.
Tony, a former member of the Jets and best friend of the gang leader, Riff, falls in love with Maria, the sister of Bernardo, leader of the Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant dramas in musical theater.
Joseph Watts is cast as Riff. T.J. Rogers is Bernardo and Isabel Dillard plays Anita, Bernardo's girlfriend and Maria's confidante.
"West Side Story's" sophisticated music, extended dance scenes and focus on social problems marked a turning point in American musical theater, when Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim wrote its music and lyrics. The score is filled with iconic songs such as "Maria," "America," "Somewhere," "Tonight, " "One Hand, One Heart" and "Cool."
Jessica LaLiberte Bowman choreographed this production. Music direction is by Terry Sanford and Sarah Pearson will conduct the full orchestra accompanying the actors.
"SeTS is thrilled to bring this musical inspired by Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet' to our community," says Smith.