West Side Story (4)

This week I want to talk about the kinds of gifts that might be relevant to the characters and songs or dialogue in this show.

In general all kinds of 1950's related things, like jukeboxes, comic books, records, classic shaped coca cola bottles with metal tops, small plastic pocket combs for the men, powder compacts for the ladies and sweets from that era. Love hearts started production in 1954, Hershey's Kisses had been produced since 1907.

The gangs in West Side Story were based on real life events and characters . This article from the Telegraph of July 2008 tells the background stories .

 The Gang identities are helpful in deciding on gifts for the participants:
Jets:

Toy planes in the style of the 1950's, usually these would be fighter planes rather than jumbo jets, or simple paper or polystyrene planes that are sold for children's party bags.

Jet jewellery (a black semi precious stone that has a sheen to it but can be carved, this was popular in the Victorian era, so might be found in second-hand shops).

Sharks:

Toy sharks (think "A Shark Tale" or "Finding Nemo")
Even a blow-up water toy if you can find one.

From The Drama Queen's Drawers these cufflinks :

for Jets

and these
for Sharks

If you were feeling crafty and had time perhaps make friendship bracelets in the gang colours ; blue and yellow for the Jets, red and purple for the Sharks, or whatever your wardrobe colours are.


For Tony and Maria; all the usual love tokens are possible. Hearts, red roses, top hats and bouquets; (although there isn't a wedding the Bridal Shop allows some license here)
One Hand, One Heart, could mean a Claddagh ring (usually depicts a heart supported by a hand on either side)

For Anita ; All kinds of things that represent “America” (some stars and stripes charms here)
Dressmaker's scissors or sewing machine charm,  Bubble bath – Black Orchid if you can find it or re-label an exotically scented one.

For Chino ; a toy gun or revolver badge.

For Baby John ; a Superman comic

For Officer Krupke ; American police hat or handcuffs charm.

These are just a few suggestions; some of these, although not all, can be found in the West Side Story category of my website www.thedramaqueensdrawers.co.uk. along with some information (such as character names and a list of musical numbers) to help you find inspiration.
I add items to the different Musicals categories as I find them or as inspiration strikes, so if you are looking for something in particular please get in touch and I will help if I can.


I hope that any of you reading this who still have yet to take part in this incredible show get the chance to do so, for me it was the experience of a lifetime, and I love to share the joy and privilege that I felt.