RIVAL gangs provided an energetic night of music, dance and entertainment as life on the mean city streets of America was transported to the Barrow stage 32 years ago.
The Mail on Tuesday, September 2 in 1986 noted: "West Side Story was voted a big hit by a packed house which greeted the opening at Barrow's Civic Hall last night with tremendous applause.
"The challenging show was a first for Barrow and for artistic director David Marcus.
"West Side Story told of a dangerous love match crossing barriers of hate between rival street gangs of the 1950s in America.
"But don't expect a happy ending to this Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim musical, with knives drawn and bullets fired.
"Full marks must go to choreographer Liz Dunn for hard work behind some stunning dancing."
There was also plenty of stage fights and acrobatics.
The stage performers were supported by an orchestra of more than 30 players.
Leading lady was Christine Evans, who took the role of Maria after overcoming a throat infection.
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