A West Side Showstopper (from Scene South)

ONE of the greatest dance shows of all time, which changed the course of musical theatre when it opened on Broadway in 1957, is to return to Southampton next year.

West Side Story will enjoy a two-week run at the Mayflower from January 27 to February 7, 2009.

As part of its 50th anniversary world tour, the original Broadway classic is being re-staged at Sadler's Wells prior to a UK tour.

Alongside the stage musical, and the 1961 film version, which won ten Academy Awards, the original creative team of West Side Story have gained legendary status.

Based on Romeo and Juliet and focusing on social issues, the extended dance scenes, and the unforgettable songs, including Maria, Tonight, Somewhere, America, and I Feel Pretty, are still popular today.

Set on Manhattan's Upper West Side, West Side Story explores the rivalry between two teenage gangs; one white the other Puerto Rican. When Tony falls in love with Maria, the sister of the rival gang's leader, the feud takes on a new dimension, and as their love blossoms so begins a fatal journey overshadowed by violence and hatred.

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