Iowa State Center » Broadway

West Side Story

ISC Staff — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:05:16 +0000

More than fifty years ago one musical changed theater forever.

Now it’s back and mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note to the final breath, West Side Story soars as the greatest love story of all time.

This revival, based on Tony Award-winning librettist Arthur Laurents’ Broadway direction, remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The Bernstein and Sondheim score is considered to be one of Broadway’s finest and features such classics of the American musical theatre as “Something’s Coming,” “Tonight,” “America,” “I Feel Pretty” and “Somewhere.”

As the Associated Press says, “West Side Story remains Broadway’s best dance-driven musical. Five decades have not dimmed the extraordinary choreography or the score that pulsates throughout.”

Reviews

‘West Side Story’ gets a new accent in an update – Star-Telegram

West Side Story Tour FAQ Sheet

Q: When did West Side Story originally open on Broadway? When did this revival open on Broadway?

A: The original production of West Side Story opened on Broadway on Sept. 26, 1957. The revival on which this tour is based opened on Broadway on March 19, 2009 and closed on January 2, 2011 and is the longest-running, most successful version of West Side Story to play Broadway to date.

Q: Is this tour directed by Arthur Laurents?

A: No, Arthur’s Broadway direction has been recreated for the tour by the Broadway production’s Associate Director, David Saint. Arthur oversaw David’s direction on the tour until his passing in May 2011.

Q: How is this revival different from the original 1957 production?

A: This is a tougher, more real production of West Side Story. Some of the musical theater comedy elements have been removed or tweaked so that the content is a darker reality. Also, dialogue that dated the show and made it seem stuck in the 1950’s has been removed. The Puerto Rican characters sometimes sing and speak in Spanish, which not only gives them more authenticity, but reflects the sounds of New York City today. As a result, the timeless universality of the show is felt as powerfully and with as much relevance now as when it was first written.

Q: Why was the decision made to include Spanish in the show?

A: Arthur Laurents and the producers agreed allowing the Sharks to express themselves in the way they would actually talk – mixing English with Spanish – would empower them as characters and result in a deeper emotional impact for the audience. It was also a way of “equalizing” the Sharks with the Jets. In so many productions of West Side Story, the Jets feel like the heroes. By giving the Sharks their language it levels the playing field. It also reinforces and amplifies the huge divide between the two gangs. It also is one of the ways to make the show feel less like a period piece and more universal, set in no specific time period at all.

Q: Has some of the Spanish from the Broadway production been removed for the tour?

A: No. The tour has the same amount of Spanish as the Broadway production. No Spanish was removed for the tour. Some of the Spanish was removed from the Broadway production in the summer of 2009, but that was the last change made to the script, and no further changes will be made. There is approximately 10% of Spanish sung and spoken in the show. However, this is not a bilingual production as the majority of the dialogue and lyrics are in English.

Q: Why was some of the Spanish removed from the Broadway production?

A: Mixing Spanish with English absolutely strengthened the depiction of the Sharks. But performing the songs “I Feel Pretty” and “A Boy Like That” exclusively in Spanish proved problematic. It turned out that many theatergoers were not familiar with the show or even familiar with Romeo & Juliet, so they didn’t understand what was going on in those pivotal scenes. In the summer of 2009, the creative team restored about half of the English to “A Boy Like That” and “I Feel Pretty”, which resulted in more audience engagement and laughs. What now exists is a perfect balance that offers audiences the most authentic emotional expression of the piece while enhancing its universality.

Q: How much Spanish is in the show?

A: The revival of West Side Story incorporates some Spanish in the dialogue and lyrics. In Act 1, there are a number of lines expressed in Spanish. In Act 2, “I Feel Pretty” and “A Boy Like That” are both sung in about 50/50 English-Spanish. In summary, about 10% of the spoken and/or sung words of this West Side Story are in Spanish and 90% are in English. This production is largely English.

Q: Why is the age recommendation for the show 13+?

A: While West Side Story is a show beloved by multiple generations, there is content in the show that is not for young children. There is strong language, violence and some sensitive subject matter that is true to the story and plot. Specifically, there are several deaths on stage, an attempted rape scene and the Officer Krupke number has suggestive language and gestures. Parents should use their best judgment as to whether this show is appropriate for their child.

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Shrek: The Musical

ISC Staff — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:11:51 +0000

Far, far and away the funniest new show on Broadway!

SHREK THE MUSICAL, based on the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks film that started it all, brings the hilarious story of everyone’s favorite ogre to life on stage. In a faraway kingdom turned upside down, things get ugly when an unseemly ogre – not a handsome prince – shows up to rescue a feisty princess. Throw in a donkey who won’t shut up, a villain with a SHORT temper, a cookie with an attitude and over a dozen other fairy tale misfits, and you’ve got the kind of mess that calls for a real hero. Luckily, there’s one on hand… and his name is Shrek. Featuring a terrific score of 19 all-new songs, big laughs, great dancing and breathtaking scenery, SHREK THE MUSICAL is part romance, part twisted fairy tale and all irreverent fun for everyone!

Reviews

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Experience the Beatles with Rain

Josh Larson — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 16:18:04 +0000

DIRECT FROM BROADWAY!

As “the next best thing to seeing The Beatles!” (Associated Press), RAIN performs the full range of The Beatles’ discography live onstage, including the most complex and challenging songs that The Beatles themselves recorded in the studio but never performed for an audience.

Together longer than The Beatles, RAIN has mastered every song, gesture and nuance of the legendary foursome, delivering a totally live, note-for-note performance in this multi-media concert, that’s as infectious as it is transporting. From the early hits to later classics (“I Want To Hold Your Hand,” “Hard Day’s Night,” “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” “Let It Be,” “Come Together,” “Hey Jude” and more), this adoring tribute will take you back to a time when all you needed was love, and a little help from your friends!

Performers:

MAC RUFFING as Paul (Vocals, Bass, Piano, Guitar): hails from Cleveland, Ohio. He started playing the drums as a teen, but found a Hofner bass and had to have it. Relocating to Southern California, he played in several original and cover bands, eventually touring worldwide. Mac is naturally right-handed, but taught himself to play left-handed. He also plays the piano and guitar. When the chance came to join RAIN, Mac immersed himself in the role and looks forward to recreating the magic of The Beatles at every show.
JIM IRIZARRY as John (Vocals, Rhythm Guitar, Piano, Harmonica): from Chicago, IL and began singing and playing the music of his favorite band, The Beatles, at the age of 12. He performed in local Chicago Beatle bands and learned the harmonica to master some of his early Beatle favorites. Years later Jim visited Liverpool for Beatle Week and made several appearances at the Cavern Club. He naturally captures the look and sound of Lennon and transforms himself through all eras of The Beatles as well as recreating John’s famous humor and onstage antics.
DOUGLAS COX as Ringo (Drums, percussion, vocals): was born in Kansas City and raised in Texas. Through his parents’ records he discovered Elvis, Chuck Berry, Little Richard and Buddy Holly but was profoundly moved by one, The Beatles “Ticket to Ride.” Doug has drummed for 16 years in Dallas’ top Beatles tribute A Hard Night’s Day. He has many memories pounding those “pagan skins” in Las Vegas, Liverpool, in London recording videos with VH-1 in Abbey Road Studio 2, and backing Tony Sheridan in Hamburg’s Kaiserkeller. Musicians back home say Doug has always naturally had that signature Ringo style, even as a 12 year old learning the trap set.
JIMMY POU as George (Vocals, Lead Guitar, Guitar Synth): was born in Miami, Florida into a Cuban family surrounded by rhythmic music. Seeing The Beatles on the Ed Sullivan show inspired him to become a guitarist. He played “George” in Beatlemania in Los Angeles, Chicago and world tour; joined “1964 the Tribute” performing at Carnegie Hall; created his solo show “An Evening With George;” performed with “Beatlemania Now” and has recorded three CDs of his own original music. Jimmy is thrilled to be part of RAIN and playing with his buddies from the Beatlemania days.
CHRIS SMALLWOOD (Keyboard, Percussion): grew up in Kentucky. He fell in love with Beatles music as a young kid, but didn’t fall onto a piano bench until high school, when he broke his leg. Just two years later, he was invited to Kentucky’s prestigious Governor’s School for the Arts Program. In 2008, Chris received a bachelor of music from Belmont University in Nashville, and in 2010 earned his master of music from the University of Louisville. Chris and his wife, Nicki, live in Nashville.

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Monty Python’s Spamalot

ISC Staff — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:30:04 +0000

Take the legendary tale of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table, add a bevy of beautiful show girls, cows, killer rabbits and French people, and you have Monty Python’s Spamalot, the musical The New York Times said “raises silliness to an art form.”

Returning to Stephens by popular demand after last year’s sold-out show, Spamalot has been hailed as a “no-holds-barred smash hit” by The New Yorker and won the Tony® Award for Best Musical. It’s utterly ridiculous, incredibly funny, and returning for one night only.

Reviews

‘Spamalot’ is side-splitting fun – Reading Eagle
Spamalot is for fans and non-fans alike – Indyweek

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Dreamgirls

ISC Staff — Wed, 14 Mar 2012 19:37:06 +0000

CATCH THE DREAM!

Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, the sensational new production of DREAMGIRLS tells the story of an up-and-coming 1960s girl singing group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. With music by Academy Award nominee Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Tony and Grammy Award winner Tom Eyen, DREAMGIRLS features the unforgettable hits: “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “One Night Only” and “Listen.” This Tony and Academy Award winning musical sparkles like never before!

Reviews

THEATER REVIEW: ‘Dreamgirls’ – FresnoBeehive

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Blue Man Group

ISC Staff — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 21:01:17 +0000

Blue Man Group is best known for their wildly popular theatrical shows and concerts which combine music, comedy and multimedia theatrics to produce a totally unique form of entertainment.

Although it is impossible to describe, people of all ages agree that Blue Man Group’s show is an intensely exciting and wildly outrageous experience that leaves the entire audience in a blissful, euphoric state.

With no spoken language, Blue Man Group is perfect for people of all ages, languages, and cultures. This unique theatrical experience is a form of entertainment like nothing else, guaranteed to be an outing you will never forget.

“An absolutely ecstatic experience.” USA Today

“A sensation!” Time Magazine

Effects: Theatrical Haze, Fog, Strobe and UV Lights are used during each performance.

Volume: Blue Man Group is a loud rock & roll type show, with levels reaching 95-98+ dB. Earplugs will be available for purchase at our concession stands.

Late Arrivals: All doors to the theatre need to be closed as the show opens with a light sensitive piece and any ambient light will wash out the images that are being projecting. The seating hold generally lasts 12 minutes. Late seating will begin once we reach a part in the show called “Gumballs and Marshmallows”.

Reviews

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Memphis the Musical

David Derong — Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:57 +0000

This hot new Broadway musical won four Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Book and Best Score.

Set in the underground dance clubs of 1950s Memphis, it’s about a white radio DJ who wants to change the world and a black club singer who’s ready for her big break. Full of explosive dancing, irresistible songs and a thrilling tale of fame and forbidden love, Memphis tells an incredible story inspired by actual events.

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The Addams Family Musical

David Derong — Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:34 +0000

Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday and Pugsley … you know and love them as “The Addams Family,” Charles Addams’ twisted, macabre and above all charming drawings for The New Yorker.

They’ve entertained millions and inspired TV series and movies, and now these iconic characters have a highly entertaining new Broadway show all their own: The Addams Family. Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a (GASP) respectable family. How will Gomez cope when she shares her secret with him? And what will happen on the fateful night when the Addams family hosts a dinner for this “normal” boyfriend and his parents? Bring your family to meet The Addams Family!

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Disney’s Beauty & The Beast

David Derong — Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:54 +0000

Be our guest for the new touring production of Beauty and the Beast, Disney’s international smash hit musical with fresh, innovative staging and all the unforgettable songs that have captivated more than 35 million people in 21 countries.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be return to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not show his heart soon, he will be doomed for all eternity.

Experience the magic of Disney live on stage and let yourself be swept away by this “tale as old as time!”

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Bring It On: The Musical

David Derong — Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:40 +0000

Uniting some of the freshest and funniest creative minds on Broadway, BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL is inspired by the Bring It On films.

The Broadway show features an original story by Tony Award®-winning writer Jeff Whitty (Avenue Q), music and lyrics by Tony Award®-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (In the Heights), music by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award®-winning composer Tom Kitt (Next to Normal), lyrics by Broadway lyricist Amanda Green (High Fidelity) and music supervision by Tony® and Grammy® Award-winner Alex Lacamoire (In the Heights). The production is directed and choreographed by Tony Award®-winner Andy Blankenbueler (In the Heights).

“Impossible to resist!”

The New York Times

“Three cheers for Broadway’s newest hit!”

USA Today

“Smart writing and laugh out loud funny…Bring It On indeed!”

Entertainment Weekly

“A genuinely high-flying, hyper-gymnastic and surprisingly savvy-sweet musical.”

Newsday

BRING IT ON: THE MUSICAL tells the story of the challenges and unexpected bonds formed through the thrill of extreme competition. With a colorful crew of characters, an exciting fresh sound and explosive dance with aerial stunts, this hilariously universal story is sure to be everything you hoped for and nothing like you expected.

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