West Side Story

Question 1

Prologue-characters and narrative

Answer 1

-sets the scene through movement rather than dialogue
-this section identifies the characters, contextual setting and establishes the theme of Gang Rivalry.
-movemet itself is used to depict rivalry-chasing fighting, staring

Question 2

Prologue-movement overview

Answer 2

-pedestrianised movement-walking, bouncing basketball, clicking etc.
-bursts of movement in interludes/dance breaks
-signature moves of each gang highlighted; sharks-clenched fists, jets-open arms in second to represent a jet

Question 3

Prologue-accompaniment

Answer 3

-begins softly
-jazz harmonies
-syncopated rhythms (rhythms that emphasise music in off-beats)
-clicking fingers ‘Finger snapping’
-Orchestral/instrumental music creates tension.

Question 4

Dance at the Gym-Characters and narrative

Answer 4

-This section presents the backdrop of conflict among the gangs
-Shows the romance and love of Maria and Tony developing.

Question 5

Dance at the Gym- Movement Overview

Answer 5

-Pedestrianised Walking
-Movement draws on Latino and American social dance styles
-Promenade style popular in 1930s where you dance in circles and partner with whoever is in front of you

Question 6

Dance at the Gym-Accompaniment

Answer 6

repetitive, melodic music

Question 7

America-Characters and Narrative

Answer 7

-The Sharks-performed on roof of the Puerto-Ricans apartment
-Anita sings in favour of the USA while Bernardo criticises the racism in American society

Question 8

America-Movement Overview

Answer 8

-Mambo/Cha-Cha Latin influenced choreography
-Movements indicative of a Paso Doble ad Spanish ‘matador’ are evident in the male movements whilst the females represent the bull

Question 9

America-Accompaniment

Answer 9

-Energetic and exuberant song. Lively and rhythmical.
-Latin inspired
-Chanting and shouting
Lyrics to match narrative
-Women are for America/Men are against

Question 10

Cool-Characters and Narrative

Answer 10

-The song is placed after the rumble when Riff has died
-The jets want revenge but ‘Ice’ the new leader tries to control the Jets anger and direct it towards the Sharks
-This section builds tension and instigates there will be more conflict amongst the gangs
-Status of gang members is clearly communicated

Question 11

Cool-Movement Overview

Answer 11

-Pedestrianised yet stylised movement
-Strong jazz influence

Question 12

Cool-Accompaniment

Answer 12

-Lyrics to match narrative
-‘Play it cool’
-‘pow’-mimicking a gun shot
-clicks used to build tension and show unity
-‘Go crazy Go’