To mark the 50th Anniversary of WEST SIDE STORY, some of the biggest classical crossover stars have gathered to record a brand new version. One of the most lauded musicals ever written, WEST SIDE STORY, with music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, is a timeless classic. The famous 1984 recording included Kiri Te Kanawa - here the part of Maria is passed to fellow New Zealander, Hayley Westenra, paired up with Italian tenor Vittorio Grigolo as Tony. With a bright young cast and legendary standards, this recording is set to become the choice for WEST SIDE STORY lovers. Release coincides with the 50th Anniversary of the Broadway opening of WEST SIDE STORY - September 26, 1957. This is the first major recording of the work since the 1984 version, which featured Leonard Bernstein conducting. The recordings of Hayley Westenra and Vittorio Grigolo have exceeded 2.5 million copies worldwide. Recording includes new essay by Leonard Bernstein's daughter, Jamie.
