THURSDAY: Analyzing "West Side Story"
Breaking down the lyrics, music, and dance of the show and both films
The release of Steven Spielberg’s version of West Side Story has garnered renewed attention to this timeless show. On Thursday, The Broadway Maven will look at the classic show’s lyrics and music (retained in the new film) and compare the films’ two versions of the dance and book.
What's a tritone and how does it shape Bernstein's music? Which lyrics embarrassed Sondheim - and which made him most proud? How does the Prologue establish the entire setting, conflict, characters, and more solely through dance and music? Which song is the "I Want" song? What are some symbols in the show? The most important themes?
In classic Broadway Maven fashion, we'll examine clips from the show and look closely at lyrics, music, and meanings.
It’s not necessary to have seen any particular version of the show/movie to enjoy the class.
For homework, watch this video about the four (gay) Jews who created West Side Story. Which had the most important contribution? Explain your answer in the comments below the video.
Note: links to register for ALL classes are ALWAYS available at TheBroadwayMaven.com.
Thursday, December 16: West Side Story (FREE, Noon and 8 pm ET)
Monday, December 20: Wicked with book writer Winnie Holzman (FREE, 8 pm ET ONLY)
Sunday, December 26: “Sunday Flicks” watch party: marathon of Funny Girl and Hello, Dolly! (FREE, Noon ET, no registration necessary, Passcode “Benkof”)
Monday, December 27: Barbra Streisand’s musicals (FREE, Noon and 8 pm ET)
Monday, January 3: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum (FREE, Noon and 8 pm ET, registration opens soon)
Monday, January 10: Company (FREE, Noon and 8 pm ET, registration opens soon)
Sunday, January 16: “Sunday Flicks” watch party: Sweeney Todd (FREE, Noon ET, ALL-ACCESS Passholders ONLY, Passcode “Benkof”)
Monday, January 17: Sweeney Todd (FREE, Noon and 8 pm ET, registration opens soon)
Monday, January 24: Into the Woods (FREE, Noon and 8 pm ET, registration opens soon)
Thursday, January 27 CATS (ALL-ACCESS Passholders ONLY, Noon and 8 pm)
Monday, January 31: Assassins (FREE, Noon and 8 pm ET, registration opens soon)