The musical "West Side Story" opens in mid-1950s in the Upper West Side of Manhattan, New York, where there has been an influx of Puerto Ricans moving into the neighborhood.

The Jets, under the leadership of Riff, are attempting to retain control of their town as the Sharks, an upcoming Puerto Rican gang, led by Bernardo, use their muscle in an attempt to take over (the territory).

These young men and women are diligently rehearsing for opening night.

Director Bill Mutimer was asked why he chose this musical.

"Because I have the guys," he replied.

This year, the cast has added members from the high school football team to their roster allowing Mutimer the option of choosing a production with more male roles.

Varsity football player Alex Bobbyn, who plays the character Action; and his dad were instrumental in convincing football players to join the cast.

Action is a member of the Jets who describes himself as Riff's right-hand man. He also has a tendency to be aggressive and always looking for a fight.

Bobbyn said he enjoys singing and dancing with his fellow gang members in "Gee Officer Krupke."

Riff is played by Dylan Rex.

"Riff is a hothead when he needs to be; but can also be calm if the situation calls for it," Rex said.

Rex said his favorite part of the musical is singing "Cool"; a song meant to calm down the members of his gang as they await the arrival of the Sharks.

Bernardo, played by George Haddad, is the leader of the Sharks.

This is his first year on stage. Usually one finds this young thespian on the football field playing varsity football.

Haddad was not planning on performing onstage but was persuaded by the Bobbyns and by the fact his father played Bernardo when he was in high school.

Bernardo describes his character as seemingly afraid to live in America. He is very protective of his younger sister, Maria, played by Kayla Olson.

Maria has been pledged to marry Chino (Frankie Dangello), Bernado's second in command.

However, she falls in love with Tony (Kurtis Reif) at the dance.

When Bernado catches them preparing to kiss he pulls them apart and sends Maria home under the care of his girlfriend, Anita.

Olson describes her character as a young Puerto Rican girl who has just come of age and is now able to attend dances.

Tony is a dreamy young man who is the co-founder of the Jets, said Kurtis Reif, who plays this role. Tony left the Jets because he wanted to do more with his life and can be found working at Doc's drug store.

"West Side Story" has been a personal favorite of Reif's since he was a child.

He said he admires Leonard Bernstein and is happy to be a part of this production.

Anita, played by Haley Smith, has a very sassy, feisty Spanish personality.

She is also is very protective of Maria, whom she considers a little sister.

Her favorite part of the musical is the dance she and the Shark girls perform in "America."

Rex said the football players have brought new life to the drama club.

They are very dedicated and have enjoyed being cast members, he said.

The musical will be performed 7 p.m. March 14 through 16; and 2 p.m. March 17 at 2 p.m.

Tickets will be on sale in the Athletic and Student Activities Office noon-2 p.m. March 13. Tickets are $9 for adults and $6 for students and senior citizens.

Tickets will also be available at the door one hour before show time.

All checks must be made payable to the Northwestern Lehigh School District.