Singing, Dancing and Forbidden Love – The GREAT Theatre Presents “West Side Story” [VIDEO]

ST. CLOUD - What does the Shakespearean classic "Romeo and Juliet" have to do with mid-1950s New York City? Lots, because that combination is the premise of the classic Stephen Sondheim musical, "West Side Story."

And, beginning tomorrow, you can see the tale of forbidden love between Tony and Maria onstage at the Paramount in downtown St. Cloud, as performed by the GREAT Theatre company.

The large ensemble cast includes Actress Carissa Parker. She plays Puerto Rican immigrant Anita.

Parker says of her character, "She's so fiery and feisty and funny," adding, "Obviously the music and dancing are wonderful."

Actor Kyle Siemens adds, his character, gang member Riff, is a rare role for a guy in musical theatre.

"This is one of the few roles where guys get to be guys," he says. "If you're male and into musical theatre, you have to do this show."

The show kicks off tomorrow night  at 7:30 p.m, and runs each weekend until Sunday, May 13th. Shows will be at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, with Sunday matinees at 2:00 p.m.

For tickets, visit the the GREAT Theatre website.

Check out this video of highlights from one of the cast's final dress rehearsals.