Jerome Robbins - Examples of Movements Linked To Characteristics in West Side Story

 Prologue 

From watching the opening number, it is incredibly clear that all the members of each gang can both act and dance. The dancing itself appears to be a mixture of contemporary dance with elements of more traditional styles such as jazz, this also gives the fight scenes a feeling of organised chaos; as it is clear that these moments have been choreographed however it still feels like the kind of dirty street fight that you might find between gangs. 

There is also a build in tension throughout the first few minutes of the number as a result of the clicking. The subtle build up of speed and volume creates a rising feeling which is heightened even further by moments where they pause the clicking, with a silence that makes the audience unaware as to if they will continue or release the growing tension that the clicking has produced. 

The movements within the piece began minor and subtle however grew to becoming increasingly lively and expressive and the number went on. 

Dance at the gym 

This number highlights the differences of the two gangs by using different dance styles. The Sharks dance with more Latin-American influences with movements such as lifts that stem from their Puerto-Rican heritage and culture, while the Jets dance with a more American contemporary style that uses floor work a great deal more. 

This scene moves the plot of the story along and also goes a long way to develop the connection between Tony and Maria however, it is portrayed in such a way that doesn't take away from the action of the number. The slower dance that they perform is also much more effective in showing the blossoming relationship between the two characters instead of just dialogue. This moment where time stops and Tony and Maria begin a slower dance is also incredibly reminiscent of Agnes De Mille's dream sequence ballet from Oklahoma! 

America 

This number is incredibly lively and energetic, it instantly grabs the audience's attention through its fast rhythm and movements. The opposing ideas of the men and women are highlighted through their different styles of dancing, the women use technical Flamenco influenced foot work that is enhanced by the flowing movements of their skirts, while the men use more leaps; this shows the conflict of levels between the two to show their differing opinions. 

The dancing, acting and lyrics are all integrated with one another where the actions match the lyrics and the subject they are singing about to add to the comedic effect. The dance also correlates with the music and the dancing itself shows the positive and negative views of America.