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West Side Story/Romeo and Juliet


I can't watch WSS without thinking of Romeo & Juliet (which I have seen as a play and also several times as a ballet). Knowing the play enhances the pleasure of watching WSS for me. It is a very close adaptation, the biggest difference IMHO being Anita substituting for Juliet's nurse as her friend and confidante and the way it ends, with Chino (Paris) killing Tony (Romeo) and Maria (Juliet) still alive. Also the adults are largely missing except for Doc (Friar Lawrence) and Lt. Shrank (the Duke of Verona).

Boo Hoo! Let me wipe away the tears with my PLASTIC hand!--Lindsey McDonald (Angel)

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Good analysis and comparison of two famously dynamic stories, jabell. Thanks.

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