The director Chris Adams discusses the CTORA Theatre production of West Side Story at the Granville Island Stage (08-24 May 2025), with Joseph Planta.

Text of the introduction by Joseph Planta:

I am Planta: On the Line, in Vancouver, British Columbia, at TheCommentary.ca.  

At the Granville Island Stage, beginning Thursday, 08 May 2025 through to 24 May 2025 is the newest production from CTORA Theatre, West Side Story. The epic and beloved musical, inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet features the music of Leonard Bernstein, the lyrics of Stephen Sondheim, and a book by Arthur Laurents. This production also recreates the show’s original 1957 choreography by Jerome Robbins. The tale of two young lovers, Tony and Maria, who are at the heart of a conflict between two rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, amidst the backdrop of a gentrifying New York City in the 1950s, has been produced on the stage countless times since its debut in the 1950s, and has been made into two major motion pictures, 1961’s Best Picture Oscar winner, and the recent Steven Spielberg remake that was also well received. Joining me now is Chris Adams, this production’s director. I’ll ask him about the large cast, the large set, and the 14-piece live orchestra. We’ll also touch on the themes of this timeless classic, as it remains relevant now just as it did with it first premiered. Visit www.ctora.ca for tickets and information. Chris Adams is also the interim artistic director of the Royal City Musical Theatre. We spoke two and a half weeks ago. Please welcome to the Planta: On the Line program, Chris Adams; Mr. Adams, good morning.  

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