One of the best scenes is the dance at the gym. The energetic choreography and the way the two rival gangs interact through dance is captivating. It shows both the tension and the underlying attraction between them.
Definitely the dance in the schoolyard. It's so energetic and really sets the tone for the rivalry between the two groups. You can see the aggression and the pride in their steps.
The 'America' song scene is really good. The women sing about their experiences in America, with different views and emotions. It's a vibrant and colorful scene that showcases the cultural mix.
The rooftop dance sequence is also great. It's more intimate and shows the connection between the lead characters. The choreography there really brings out their emotions and the budding romance. It has a dreamy quality to it that makes it stand out.
One of the best lines is 'When you're a Jet, you're a Jet all the way, from your first cigarette to your last dyin' day.' It really shows the loyalty within the Jet gang.
The set design was another significant aspect. The team had to create a believable New York City streetscape for the story. They paid great attention to details like the graffiti on the walls, the layout of the alleys, and the lighting to set the mood. This was crucial in bringing the story's setting to life and making the audience feel like they were really in the world of the Jets and the Sharks.
The casting process was also quite interesting. The producers were looking for actors who could not only act but also sing and dance well. They held numerous auditions to find the perfect fit for each role. For example, Natalie Wood, who played Maria, had to work hard on her singing part as she wasn't a natural singer. The makeup and costume design was another aspect. They had to create looks that were both period - accurate and helped to distinguish the two gangs clearly.
In my opinion, the 1961 movie version of 'Tonight' from 'West Side Story' is a great rendition. The actors' voices were full of passion and the music arrangement was classic. It captured the essence of the moment in the story very well.
It depends on personal preference. Some might say the Broadway stage production had the best version because of the live energy and authenticity. But many also love the 2021 remake for its modern interpretation and updated production values.