WEST SIDE STORY
November 28th and 29th at 7 p.m.
Ages 13 years and older
Due to the uncertain climate surrounding the health and wellness of our community, we are operating on a day-to-day basis and all dates may be subject to change pending any government requirements based on COVID-19 safety measures. As guidance continues to evolve, masks are currently required for all performers during the rehearsal process and backstage during performances.
VIRTUAL AUDITION
See Audition Information for more details. All parts of virtual submissions must be submitted by November 28th at 12:00 p.m.
Virtual Audition Application (must be received by November 28th at 12:00 p.m.)
IN-PERSON AUDITIONS
November 28th and 29th at 7 p.m.
Performers interested in auditioning in person can fill out the in-person application and bring it completed to the audition.
SHOW DESCRIPTION:
Set in the 1950’s, Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the "American" Jets and the “Puerto Rican” Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching, and relevant musical dramas of our time.
CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:
The Playhouse is currently seeking a diverse medium to large-sized cast of all ethnicities to portray characters in West Side Story. As such, we are refraining from listing expectations, such as age, from our character descriptions. We encourage all performers to put forth their best audition for consideration.
Riff
A spritely, quick-tempered leader. He seeks to eliminate the Sharks and establish his own gang's dominance. Tony's best friend, he is eventually murdered by Bernardo.
Gender: Male
Tony
A romantic young man and former leader of the Jets, he has found a new lifestyle now. Tony finds himself violently torn between his friendships and love. Falls in love with Maria and meets an untimely death. Genuinely sweet and sincere.
Gender: Male
Bernardo
A proud, strong, handsome Puerto Rican man. Bernardo seeks to carve out territory as a sense of identity for he and his friends. Maria's brother and Anita's boyfriend. Leader of the Sharks.
Gender: Male
Maria
A hopeless romantic and innocent young girl. She falls in love with Tony and finds herself at the center of the violent conflict between the two gangs. Bernardo's sister. Puerto Rican.
Gender: Female
Anita
Feisty and assertive. She dispenses "older sister" advice to Maria and tries to shield her from the dangers of the gangs. Bernardo's girlfriend and Maria's friend. Puerto Rican.
Gender: Female
Chino
An angry and, at times, naive Shark who turns murderous and vengeful. Suitor to Maria and friend of Bernardo's.
Gender: Male
Anybodys
A spunky tomboy who is desperate to become a member of the Jets. The other Jets mock her for her ambitions, but generally appreciate her company. Full of energy and heart.
Gender: Female
Doc
The owner of the candy store where the Jets hang out. He tries to guide the Jets youthful angst and provides a safe haven for Tony. Old fashioned and wise in his ways.
Gender: Male
Schrank
A local police detective frustrated by the ongoing violence between the Jets and Sharks. Blunt, brash, and unapologetic.
Gender: Male
Krupke
The local beat cop. He has no patience for the gangs conflict and tries to keep tensions from erupting between them. Regularly mocked by the local gangs.
Gender: Male
Ensemble
Jets, Sharks, Jets Females, Sharks Females