Introduction to Musical
Where does the story take place?
New York City
What country are the characters immigrating from?
Puerto Rico
What was the musical originally called?
East Side Story
When does the musical take place?
1950s
What were growing tensions in the 1950s?
immigration, race, housing, and economic opportunities?
Catholic and Jewish groups
What is the musical based on?
Romeo and Juliet
Why was their a rise in Puerto Rican immigration in the 1950s?
They gained their citizenship
Who was the lyricist for this musical?
Stephan Sondheim?
What are the names of the gangs called?
Sharks and Jets
What committee did Jerome Robbins speak at to protect his repuatation.
Housing Un-American Activities Committee
What year did the show open?
1957
What is Maria's brother's name?
Bernardo
What is McCarthyism?
A political statement that has to do with the fear of communism, which the musical combats.
How long did the musical run on Broadway before heading out on tour?
732