The more physically demanding choreography and distinguished reputation of the musical “West Side Story” requires cast members to push themselves to their limits.

“Standards are high for the show. Everyone does it and you’re always going to be compared to other high schools or Broadway. When it’s such a well known show, people know how it’s supposed to go and how it’s supposed to sound; so they critique you on how you did. You have to live up to their standards,” senior actor Rei Morina-Ago said.

“West Side Story,” a dance-heavy musical, opens Feb. 27 for the matinee showing. In order to be ready, rehearsals are more frequent than previous years to teach the complicated choreography and run around three hours daily.

“I was more prepared this year. Like last year, I kind of went into it like, ‘oh, it’s not a big deal, I’ll see what I can do.’ With this year, I was actually like, ‘oh, I actually want a part,’ so I actually was prepared,” junior actor Sydney Townsend said.

To display convincing emotions, some actors work with private vocal or acting coaches.  During rehearsals, cast members practice the intense choreography, singing and New York and Puerto Rican accents. 

“[Preparing] is individualized. For example, we do choreography and we’ll record it. We have a private YouTube channel, so I’ll put it up on that so the kids can watch it and practice it at home,” theater arts teacher and play director Eric Wells said. “Some people who are better dancers pick it up really quick. Others have to work a little bit harder on it.”

Meanwhile, behind the scenes the show comes together with set building, costumes, makeup, hair, lighting and sound.

“This is going to blow “High School Musical” out of the water, I think; and it’s on track to be really, really good,” Morina-Ago said. “It’s an emotional roller coaster.”