Happy to Be Up in Addison

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More About

• West Side Story
• Rita Moreno
• Natalie Wood
• New York Crime
• Gangs

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There's no better way to get the family together on a summer night than bringing a picnic basket to the park, spreading out and watching some carefully choreographed gang warfare—gang warfare set to rousing music, no less. No, the Crips and the Bloods aren't throwing down over that Lil Jon song again. This time it's all about the Sharks, the Jets and the fierce hoofing skills of Rita Moreno. West Side Story is a film that admittedly looks like a very far-fetched concept on paper (Romeo and Juliet set in Manhattan? Natalie Wood singing?), but for a generation of kids who haven't seen it, it's a movie that appeals to both romantics and action buffs. Half of Hollywood lobbied to play Maria and Tony, and it's easy to see why Audrey Hepburn and Elvis Presley regretted turning down roles in a film that was considered light years ahead of its time. The blend of social commentary on immigration might inspire conversation among older kids, while younger kids will no doubt be enthralled by the elaborate song and dance routines. A setting under the stars will allow members of the family not into musicals to stargaze and run around the park. West Side Story will be shown for free at the Bowl Stage in Addison Circle Park (4970 Addison Circle Drive in Addison) at 9 p.m. Saturday. Visit addisontexas.net.
Sat., June 16, 9 p.m.