Something’s Coming, Something Good: West Side Story comes to King’s

Rehearsals are well underway for this year’s main Senior School production of and it’s shaping up to be a memorable one. West Side Story, the heart-wrenching story of star-crossed lovers in New York City is well-known for its memorable songs and high-energy dancing, and our talented cast and crew can’t wait to bring it to the Vanbrugh Theatre stage in February. 

King’s Drama Teacher Julia Williams is directing West Side Story and she shared why it was the perfect choice for the 2025/26 production: “West Side Story is iconic; it offers a stunning blend of dancing, singing and acting, all wrapped up in a timeless love story that continues to resonate with audiences today as it did when it debuted on Broadway almost 70 years ago. 

“It’s a production that demands emotional depth and technical precision but we knew that our pupils had the talent and dedication to do the show justice. I have been incredibly proud – but not at all surprised – with how every member of the cast and crew has risen to the challenge.”

As well as regular rehearsals in the Vanbrugh Theatre, the cast has  also been attending focussed singing and dancing sessions to ensure that they are word-perfect and step-perfect come February.

Mrs Williams again: “West Side Story is dance-heavy and it has definitely pushed our pupils both physically and artistically, but they have embraced the challenge and their hard work is paying off. 

“We are lucky enough to have a fantastic choreographer in Mrs Davis and I think that audiences will be amazed by the energy and movement she has inspired the pupils to bring to the stage.”

The production involves more than 60 pupils from Shells to Upper Sixth, including a talented team of pupil technicians who are working hard with our professional theatre technician to perfect the light and sound that will bring the story to life.

The atmosphere in rehearsals is one of friendly collaboration and camaraderie where older and younger pupils support and encourage each other.

Mrs Williams: “There is a real energy in our rehearsals; a sense that, together, we are creating something incredible. I love watching the pupils from all year groups working together, getting along so well and really encouraging each other to give their best.

“I can’t wait for February. West Side Story promises to be a performance bursting with energy and a beautifully told love story that celebrates the talent and teamwork of our pupils, as well as the timeless power of musical theatre.” 

West Side Story will run for four nights in the Vanbrugh Theatre from 4 – 7 February 2026. Tickets available soon.