With a tragic, romantic plot that focuses on two lovers swept up in the conflicts of rival gangs in New York City, West Side Story has always been emotionally darker and more unexpectedly violent than other musicals from Hollywood's Golden Age. Composer Leonard Bernstein and lyricist Stephen Sondheim infused storyteller Arthur Laurents' makeover of Romeo and Juliet with memorably passionate songs, and Jerome Robbins artfully choreographed the fight scenes with a soaring, balletic bravado. Many remember as the definitive version the 1961 film with Natalie Wood and Richard Beymer, but in this new production directed by Richard Israel, the musical returns to the immediacy of its Broadway roots with a vibrant cast that includes Ashley Marie (as Maria), Eddie Egan (Tony) and Marlene Martinez (Anita). Valley Performing Arts Center, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge; Fri., March 10, 8 p.m.; Sat., March 11, 3 & 8 p.m.; Sun., March 12, 3 p.m.; $33-$75. (818) 677-3000, valleyperformingartscenter.org. —Falling James
http://www.laweekly.com/arts/21-best-things-to-do-in-la-this-week-8006526
LA Weekly