SAC Dramatic Society presents West Side Story Nov. 17-20

The SAC Dramatic Society celebrates the return to live theatre at St. Andrew’s with West Side Story, the show that changed the face of musical theatre forever.

Set against the gritty realism of the New York ghettos where warfare between the rival Shark and Jet gangs destroys the relationship between love-struck Tony and Maria, it was an instant sensation when it opened on Broadway in 1957, a bold new kind of musical theatre that dealt with controversial themes of gang violence, immigration, racism, gender discrimination, and police brutality.

A cautionary tale of racism and intolerance, West Side Story is perhaps even more relevant today than it has ever been, and this production could not come at a better time for our students as they navigate their way through many of the contentious issues of contemporary life. 

As #BlackLivesMatter pushes back against racially motivated police violence, the #metoo and LGTBQ+ movements unleash a cultural awakening, and controversy rages about how to deal with the largest wave of displaced people since the Second World War, the opening words of West Side Story’s utopian anthem, Somewhere, feel as relevant and necessary now as they did more than 60 years ago:

There’s a place for us
Somewhere a place for us
Peace and quiet and open air
Wait for us
Somewhere.

So make a date with your son and be part of the important conversation about race and discrimination taking place at St. Andrew’s this fall by seeing and discussing West Side Story with your son.

Story by William Scoular, Director of Drama and Film

TICKETS:
Wednesday, Nov. 17
Thursday, Nov. 18
Friday, Nov. 19
Saturday, Nov. 20

Content warning: please be advised the play is not recommended for Middle School-aged children and is intended for mature audiences only. The play contains scenes that some viewers may find disturbing. Viewer discretion is advised.
Back
We are committed to building a sense of belonging in our community.
By dedicating ourselves to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable environment, we will foster and accept the unique individuality of each of our citizens, ensuring all members feel valued and respected.
"Dedicated to the development of the complete man, the well-rounded citizen." | © 2024 St. Andrew's College. All Rights Reserved. 15800 Yonge Street, Aurora, ON L4G 3H7 Canada