Set in the slums of New York City, amidst the backdrop of 1950s-era ethnic gang warfare, West Side Story revolutionised American musical theatre.

Nathan Scherich, who co-stars in an anniversary production of the now-  legendary musical, says, “In 1957, when it came out, it was unlike anything that had ever been seen before.”

Scherich plays Tony, a young gang member who yearns for a better life. “He wants out of  the gang. He knows there is something else going on in life rather than gangs. And he does not know quite what it is, but then he gets to the dance at the gym and sees Maria for the first time.”

Actress Sarah Darling plays Maria. “She is a very young girl who has just moved to America — she has only been here for a month — and she comes from a very protective family, over-protective really. And so she is just really anxious to grow up and   experience life in         America,” says Scherich.

The exuberance of that life is portrayed in West Side Story.  But what made the show so innovative when it had its  premiere 50 years ago was its depiction of urban slum life in a series of song and dance numbers the likes of which had not been seen before on the American stage.

“Amazing” music Sarah Darling says enthusiastically: “The music is so amazing. It is the best there is in musical theatre, so the music will get you as well.”

The songs in West Side story have left a deep mark on American culture.       Today, half a century after it was first staged, the    production still has the power to connect with audiences.

Scherich remarks: “People are touched in   different ways. Some of them are mad at the end, some of them are sad. I mean, it affects people in different fashions.”

Actress Sarah Darling adds, “A lot of times in  musical theatre you end the show and everyone is just happy and excited. But in this one, their joy and their applause come from being deeply moved. That’s really rewarding for me and, hopefully, for them as well.” Credit for that perhaps goes partly to Shakespeare- his genius framed the basic story.

But the combined         genius of American       masters in music, dance and theatre production is what makes West Side     Story a modern-day classic of unique and enduring        delight.