Choose a work to discuss from one genre that interprets a work from another genre. Include the title, artist, and description of both works. Examine how the artist of the second work captured the subject or story of the first. Support your point(s) with a statement from the second artist that discusses the influence, reasoning, or interpretation of the original work on the second work.

Title: “West Side Story” film by Robert Wise and Jerome Robbins (1961) interpreted as a musical theatre production by Joey McKneely (2009)

“West Side Story” is a musical film released in 1961, directed by Robert Wise and choreographed by Jerome Robbins. It is an adaptation of the Shakespearean play “Romeo and Juliet,” set in New York City’s West Side in the 1950s. The story centers on two rival gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, and the love story between Tony, a former Jet member, and Maria, the sister of the Sharks’ leader.

In 2009, Joey McKneely directed a revival of “West Side Story” as a musical theatre production. McKneely’s interpretation of the original work sought to highlight the show’s themes of love, violence, and cultural conflict. The production featured new choreography and set design, while staying true to the original story and music.

McKneely’s interpretation captured the energy and intensity of the original film while bringing a fresh perspective to the story. The new choreography added dynamic movement and physicality to the show’s dance numbers, creating a more visceral experience for the audience. The set design also contributed to the production’s impact, with innovative use of lighting and projection to create a vivid and immersive environment.

In an interview with Broadway World, McKneely discussed the influence of the original film on his production. He stated, “I wanted to honor the original while bringing something new and fresh to the show. We wanted to create a production that would speak to audiences today, while staying true to the timeless story and music of ‘West Side Story’.” This statement highlights McKneely’s goal of paying homage to the original work while infusing it with his own artistic vision and interpretation.

Overall, Joey McKneely’s interpretation of “West Side Story” as a musical theatre production captured the essence of the original film while adding new elements that made the story feel fresh and relevant to modern audiences. His use of innovative choreography and set design, along with his respect for the timeless themes of the original work, made his production a worthy tribute to the classic film.