By Lookout Staff
September 9, 2025 -- Those who want to catch a real-time performance of LA Opera's production of "West Side Story" at Dorthy Chandler Pavilion don't have to pay $433 for an orchestra level seat.
They can head to the Pier on Saturday, September 27, at 7:30 p.m. and enjoy a free performance of the classic Leonard Berstein 1957 musical on a "massive outdoor screen" that will transform Santa Monica's "shoreline into an open-air opera house," promotors said.
The 12th annual "Opera at the Beach" offers a "high-definition video from nine cameras at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion to large LED screens at Altadena’s Loma Alta Park and at the Santa Monica Pier."
One of the most frequently performed American musicals, the adaptation of Shakespeare's tale of Romeo and Juliet to 1950s New York City was originally conceived as an opera, LA Opera officials said.
"We’re paying tribute to Bernstein’s impact as only we can, with James Conlon leading the brilliant LA Opera Orchestra -- not to mention a magnificent cast in top vocal and physical form."
"Director Francesca Zambello dives into one of the most emblematic works of American theater with this elevated, maximalist take that incorporates the iconic original choreography created by the legendary Jerome Robbins."
LA Opera describes the plot this way: "In the musical retelling, New York City’s West Side is split between the Jets and the Sharks -- but these warring gangs never imagined that two of their own could fall in love.
"Tenor Duke Kim is Tony, a former Jet who finds himself falling for Maria (the radiant Gabriella Reyes). But Maria is promised to another, and her brother Bernardo is more than willing to rally his Sharks to keep it that way.
"The two lovers dream of a happily ever after, but their neighborhood can see tragedy coming a mile away."
The simultaneous broadcast in Altadena represents the Jets, while Santa Monica stands with the Sharks, promotors said.
"Preshow fun includes a live baby shark from Heal the Bay Aquarium, family-friendly arts activities with LA Opera Connects, giveaways, and local vendors bringing coastal flavor to the boardwalk."
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early with their blankets and chairs and enjoy free popcorn as they watch the performance.
Subtitles in English and Spanish will be available. Outside alcohol and pets are not permitted.
"Thanks to the generous support of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, this simulcast is free and open to all -- a gift of music, community, and culture for Los Angeles," LA OPera said.
