News Summary
The LA Opera has unveiled its contemporary adaptation of ‘West Side Story,’ featuring a remarkable cast and innovative choreography. Directed by Francesca Zambello, this production not only opens the opera’s 40th season but also celebrates James Conlon’s final season as conductor. The adaptation explores themes of xenophobia and youth conflict, portraying the struggles between the Jets and Sharks in a modern context. With powerful performances and striking visuals, this rendition promises a poignant experience running until October 12.
Los Angeles – The LA Opera’s contemporary adaptation of “West Side Story” premiered on September 20, 2025, marking a significant milestone as the opening of its 40th season. Directed by Francesca Zambello, this production also signifies James Conlon’s 20th and final season as conductor for the LA Opera.
The narrative of “West Side Story” remains focused on the rivalry between two teenage gangs located in Manhattan—the Jets and the Sharks. The Jets are comprised of white Americans, while the Sharks represent Puerto Rican Americans who have immigrated to New York City. This adaptation delves into deep themes such as xenophobia and territorial conflict, illustrating the struggles faced by these communities.
In this production, P. Tucker Worley portrays Riff, the leader of the Jets, while Yurel Echezarreta plays Bernardo, the leader of the Sharks. Amanda Castro delivers a remarkable performance as Anita, a character who showcases both strength and vulnerability, particularly in her rendition of the song “America.” The synergy between the cast is palpable, as seen in the dynamic relationship between soprano Gabriella Reyes, who plays Maria, and tenor Duke Kim, the former Jets leader who portrays Tony. Their characters embody the innocent yet hesitant nature of young love against the backdrop of gang conflict.
The production stands out not only for its engaging performances but also for its innovative choreography. Emmy-winning choreographer Joshua Bergasse has crafted sharp movements that perfectly complement the musical score. In a notable design choice, lighting designer Mark McCullough utilized colored lighting to illustrate the power struggles inherent in the story, using blue to represent the Jets and red for the Sharks. This visual element enhances the emotional storytelling, particularly during the intense rumble scene, which blends dance, physicality, and orchestral music to artistically interpret violence.
As the opera progresses to its second act, the focus shifts to the aftermath of the conflict between the Jets and the Sharks, with deep emotional weight placed on the characters of Maria and Tony. The adaptation aims to pay homage to the source material while engaging with pressing issues of racism, immigration, and gun violence—elements that resonate strongly in today’s society.
This rendition of “West Side Story” strives to balance operatic and theatrical components, aiming to engage contemporary audiences while staying true to the work’s original intent. The production is set to run at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion until October 12, 2025, providing ample opportunities for guests to experience this powerful retelling of a classic story.
For those interested in attending, student rush tickets are available for just $25 on performance days, further promoting accessibility to this profound theatrical experience.
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Additional Resources
- USC Annenberg Media: LA Opera’s West Side Story
- Hollywood Reporter: LA Opera’s West Side Story
- Broadway World: Review of West Side Story
- Wikipedia: West Side Story
- Time Out: West Side Story by LA Opera
Author: STAFF HERE HOLLYWOOD
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