Rehearsals for the acclaimed musical West Side Story have commenced in Sydney, ahead of its return on 22 March as part of the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour. The cast, comprising talents from numerous Australian cities including Mount Gambier, Wagga Wagga, Alice Springs, Gold Coast, Canberra, Newcastle, Melbourne, and Adelaide, alongside an international cast member from the US, have gathered in Sydney. They are set to undertake an intensive rehearsal schedule, preparing for their performances in this open-air season overlooking the picturesque Sydney Harbour.
The production will be guided by Associate Director Eric Sean Fogel, Revival Choreographer Kiira Schmidt Carper, and Musical Director Guy Simpson. They will work with the cast on the intricate dance sequences and the iconic musical scores that define this long-running Broadway production.
Leading roles include First Nations soprano Nina Korbe as Maria and Billy Bourchier from Canberra as Tony. The cast also features Patrick Whitbread from Newcastle as Riff and Kimberley Hodgson from the Gold Coast as Anita. Adding to the international flavour of the production, Broadway actor Manuel Stark Santos will make his Australian debut playing Bernardo.
The 44-member cast also includes notable Australian performers such as Wayne Scott Kermond (who is always a joy to see in a production), Scott Irwin, Joe Clements, and Doron Chester, taking on key roles within the musical.
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is celebrated not only for its theatrical offerings but also for the unique experience it provides, featuring nightly fireworks, a selection of pop-up bars and eateries, and stunning views of Sydney’s skyline, including landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. You can read more about the offerings on the night HERE.
Tickets are still available for the performances across 22 March – 21 April, with prices starting from $79.00 (excl booking fee) and going up several hundred dollars for more premium reserves. To see what seats are available, visit the official Opera Australia website.
