Fifty years ago, a team of visionaries redrew the boundaries of musical theatre forever. Using the classic story of Romeo and Juliet as an outline, they crafted a timeless love story that remains one of the American theatre's crowning achievements. Set in Manhattan's upper west side, the story explores the enmity between two rival gangs of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. With a glorious score by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Arthur Laurents, West Side Story features some of the most memorable songs of modern musical theatre: "Maria", "Tonight" and "I Feel Pretty".

Opening March 7th and running through May 18th, West Side Story is Candlelight's second installment in their 2008 Season to Remember.

The talented young cast of West Side Story is under the direction of Chris Alberts and stars Brendan Sheehan, Jacquellyne Giordano, Danielle Herbert, Conrad Ricamora, Matt Whalen, David McConney, Will Harrell, Jeffrey Dietzler, Owen Pelesh, Maureen Cotallese, Anthony Tumolo, Christian Goerge, Jeff Kobasa, Nikki Evans, Kelsey McDowell, Lauren Smith, Elish Conlon, Beth Wheeler, Antoinette Guinyard, Calley Steel, Paul Mansfield, Paul Goodman and Ben Lovell.

Brendan Sheehan (Tony) of Media, PA starred in last season's Beauty and the Beast and Grease. Jacquellyne Giordano (Maria) of Philadelphia, PA makes her NCT debut! No stranger to the stage her past credits include Sweeney Todd and Brigadoon. Conrad Ricamora (Bernardo) of Philadelphia, PA has been seen regionally at The Media Theatre, Walnut Street Theatre, The Prince Music Theatre, The Arden Theatre and opposite Will Ferrell in Talladega Nights. Rounding out the main characters, Danielle Herbert (Anita) of Philadelphia, PA, has been seen regionally at The Arden Theatre in Caroline, or Change and at The Walnut Street Theatre in Peter Pan, Man of La Mancha and Carousel.

Production staff includes: musical direction by resident music director Steve Weatherman, set and lighting design by Chris Alberts, production stage management, Jackie Goldwurm, assistant stage manager, Stephanie Crowe and Shauna Hitchens, choreographer.

Executive Director Bob Miller and Artistic Director Jody Anderson Miller produce the first installment of the 2008 season and invite you to join them in celebrating the 50th Anniversary of this groundbreaking show's original Broadway opening and witness to one of America's most beloved treasures.

The New Candlelight Theatre is located in historic Ardentown, DE-five minutes from downtown Wilmington and 30 minutes from Center City, Philadelphia. West Side Story will open on March 7, 2008 and run until May 18, 2008. To purchase tickets, please call The New Candlelight Theatre box office at: 302-475-2313. For more information on The New Candlelight Theatre, please visit www.newcandlelighttheatre.com.