Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®
Articles 1 - 1 of 1
Full-Text Articles in Entire DC Network
Social Reality Versus Theatrical Portrayal: Puerto Rican Gangs In West Side Story, Rebecka Peterson
Social Reality Versus Theatrical Portrayal: Puerto Rican Gangs In West Side Story, Rebecka Peterson
Theses and Dissertations
“Social Reality Versus Theatrical Portrayal: Puerto Rican Gangs in West Side Story” asks the question of whether or not the acclaimed Broadway musical West Side Story is more than just a museum piece. I hypothesize that its success can be linked to its continuing social relevance concerning Puerto Rican gangs in New York City. To evaluate the musical’s social relevance, the socioeconomic condition of Puerto Ricans in New York City is examined during three specific time periods and compared to the condition of the Puerto Rican gang, the Sharks, as portrayed in the musical. The three periods are the 1950s, …