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Read and discuss the books that inspired Broadway musicals, enriching understanding and enjoyment of both!
This month we will be reading the play "Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare and discussing it along its most most iconic musical adaption, "West Side Story."
One of Shakespeare's most cherished plays, Romeo and Juliet tells the story of who have become archetypal but doomed titular young lovers from rival families in Renaissance Verona. After a brief and chance meeting, Romeo and Juliet attempt to defy their familial obligations to pursue but both lose their lives in the process.
"West Side Story" sets the Shakespeare tragedy in a mid 20th century Upper West Side of Manhattan with the principal lovers being from different ethnic backgrounds and different gang affiliations. The book of the show was written by a young Stephen Sondheim. It's original 1958 production won Tony Awards for Best Choreography for Jerome Robbins and Best Scenic Design. The musical was then adapted into the 1961 film classic of the same, and again by Stephen Spielberg in 2021. The musical was briefly revived recently in early 2020 before being quickly shut down during Covid closures of Broadway theatres and never reopened.
We typically meet the fourth Thursday of the month at the Northeast Neighborhood Library at 6:30pm in the Mezzanine Conference Room. This month, we will meet Thursday, April 27, 2023. Please click "Register" or email Jeff at jeffrey.gluckman@dc.gov if you would like to attend!
To reserve you own copy, check the catalog here.
To see past and upcoming Page to Stage Book Club selections and more about the book club, check here!
To go beyond the text with your library card:
