
MAC-HAYDN SEASON OPENS WITH BERNSTEIN MASTERPIECE
Often regarded as the greatest love story of all time, this landmark Broadway musical returns to the Mac-Haydn. With a powerful, poignant book, and unforgettable music and lyrics by iconic team Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim, West Side Story changed musical theatre forever.
Leading the production is Director/Choreographer Bryan Knowlton who has been a part of the Mac-Haydn family since 2010. Knowlton is partnering for the first time with Associate Director and Choreographer Elizabeth McGuire, whose choreography was featured in last season’s “The Sound of Music” and “Godspell.” They are joined by Music Director Eric Shorey and Assistant Music Director Matt Levinstein. The production will feature scenic design by Alivia Cross, along with lighting design by Andrew Gmoser, costume design by Hannah Sadler, sound design by Sean McGinley, hair and makeup design by Emily Allen, and props design by Clay Cates.
The cast is led by a collection of newcomers to the Mac-Haydn. Making their Mac-Haydn debuts are Jared Goodwin as Tony, Paula Gaudier as Maria, Caleb Bermejo as Bernardo, Ariellys Reynoso as Anita, and Griffin Wilkins as Riff.
West Side Story is guaranteed to be a breathtaking, thrilling and timely launch to the 2024 Season. Full of diverse, memorable music including “Something’s Coming,” “Tonight,” “I Feel Pretty,” and “Somewhere,” as well as the unforgettable ”Dance At The Gym”. This masterpiece of theater promises to make an indelible impression on audiences of all ages.
The musical was inspired by William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” and was originally produced on Broadway in 1957 with direction and choreography by Jerome Robbins.