Rita, 86, is back in West Side Story...60 years on
HOLLYWOOD legend Rita Moreno is to feature in the remake of West Side Story – almost 60 years after appearing in the original film.
The 86-year-old, who won an Oscar in the 1961 musical, will take up a role specially created for her in Steven Spielberg’s adaptation.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I see myself revisiting this seminal work,” said Rita, who will also serve as an executive producer on the film which begins shooting next summer.
“To be asked by Steven Spielberg to participate is simply thrilling. Then to work together with the brilliant playwright, Tony Kushner – what a glorious stew. I am tingling.”
Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Kushner – who worked with Spielberg on the 2012 film Lincoln – has adapted the tale of doomed lovers Tony and Maria, inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
Rita is set to play the Valentina, which is based original character Doc.
In the 1961 version, Rita’s fiery character Anita was the best friend of Maria, played by Natalie Wood.
Rita sang on signature tunes such as America and Tonight.
The Puerto Rican actress is one of only 15 people to have EGOT status – meaning she has won Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony awards.
In the new West Side Story, Oscarwinning director Spielberg will turn role of on the Rita Moreno, forefront, as Anita in the 1961 classic and, right and inset, today
his hand to a musical time in his career.
However, his take on the story about rival street gangs, the Sharks and the Jets, in 1950s New York is not expected to be an exact retelling. for the first
“From our earliest discussions, we wanted to include Rita Moreno in our production,” Spielberg said.
“Her Anita is one of the greatest musical performances ever filmed – and a personal favourite of mine.”