Sultry Summer Nights Sizzle with ‘West Side Story’

The weather is heating up, and summer events are everywhere! If there's one event you don't want to miss, it's Mid-Columbia Musical Theater's (MCMT) production of West Side Story. It's the classic tale of love across a great divide. Based on Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, two rival gangs (the Sharks and the Jets) fight for turf and control of mean New York streets. In the middle of it all, a boy and a girl (Tony and Maria) from opposite sides of the feud find a love they have to hide. As the Sharks and Jets get ready to rumble, Tony and Maria try to find away to stop the fighting and find a place where they can be together; away from the battle around them.

MCMT is presenting this production outdoors at the bandstand stage in Columbia Park. I was able to see a preview last night, and I have to say, I was impressed! The leads, Tony and Maria, will blow you away with their vocals. Riff and Bernardo make it so hard to choose sides. The supporting cast are strong and compelling and the ensemble will have you wanting to sing and dance along! Directed my Megan Johnson and Music Direction by Jill Madison (yes, there's a full live orchestra), this crew is as talented as the cast and have put together one VERY enjoyable summer evening! Filled with corrupt cops, racial and social conflict, love, and loss West Side Story is not to be missed!

Seating is either on the lawn or bleachers and tickets range from $10-$20 and you can click here to buy yours! Bring your own blanket or lawn chairs for lawn seating. Outside food and drinks (non-alcoholic) are permitted. The show opens tonight (June 22) and runs the 23rd, 28th, 29th, and 30th at 7:30pm. This show is kid friendly, but there is fighting, knives, a gun, and mild suggested sexuality. I'd say 8 and up, but you be the judge for your family. Gather your crew and definitely DO NOT MISS THIS SHOW! It's another hit for MCMT!