In West Side Story, time is used for characterization. For instance, the time Tony spends thinking about Maria shows his deepening feelings. Time is also used in the transitions between scenes. The quick changes in time can create a sense of urgency. Moreover, the time of day for certain events, like the balcony scene at night, adds to the mood.
Time in West Side Story is used in multiple ways. Firstly, it's used to mark the passage of the story's events. The different time intervals between the gang meetings, for example, show the ebb and flow of the conflict. Secondly, time is related to the music. The length and tempo of the musical numbers are timed to create different emotions. Thirdly, the time that characters interact with each other, whether it's a brief moment or a long conversation, shapes their relationships and the overall story.