The student news site of Greater Latrobe High School

The High Post

The student news site of Greater Latrobe High School

The High Post

The student news site of Greater Latrobe High School

The High Post

West Side Story Preview

West+Side+Story+Preview

Two people, from two different cultures, fighting against all odds to be together, but is it enough?  West Side Story is a modern day Romeo and Juliet that takes place in New York City during the mid-1950s.  Since it opened on Broadway in 1957, it has captured the hearts of people all around the world.  Originally directed and choreographed by Tony award winner Jerome Robbins with lyrics written by Stephen Sondheim, the memorable musical features well known songs such as “Tonight” and “America.”  As a result, it is no surprise why Greater Latrobe chose this classic show as their spring musical. 

The lead couple in the show is junior Courtney Joseph, who plays Maria and senior Sam Prichard, who plays Tony.  This is not Sam’s first time to have a lead in one of our school’s musicals.  In his sophomore year, he played Danny in Grease and last year he was Gaston in Beauty and the Beast, so he is no stranger to the spotlight.  Although he did say that some of his songs were difficult to learn this year, they were nothing that he couldn’t handle.  “I’m looking forward to the adrenaline rush that will come opening night,” said Prichard. 

But Sam and Courtney are not the only people with complicated roles in the show because dancing is another major aspect of this musical.  The numerous complex and intricate dance numbers include the entire cast who have been striving to reach perfection.  “It’s not only vocally challenging but there is a lot of dance.  It’s a really hard show to do but I think we are going to pull it together,” said junior cast member Emily Puleo. 

An additional member of the cast is our own high school principal, Mr. LoCascio.  The directors Mr. Krack and Mr. Murray asked him if he wanted to have a role in the show and he agreed as long as it was small.  “Being with the kids and watching them enjoy it has been fun,” LoCascio said.  “I have a great deal of respect for their talents and their abilities and it’s nice to be a part of it.”

With less than ten days until the show, it is truly coming together.  The cast practices every day until about 8:00 p.m., dedicating all of their time into preparing the show.  Puleo said, “It’s a big commitment and people really underestimate how much time goes into this.”  These last few days before opening night will show the cast and crew if all of their hard work and preparation will pay off.   

The show opens on Friday, March 18 and will continue on Saturday, March 19 at 7:30 p.m. in the Greater Latrobe Senior High auditorium.  Students in grades 6-12 will receive a special preview during school on Thursday, March 17.

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