u/MinaHarker1

Hi all! I’m a coach, and I’m already planning for next season. I’d like to use “Jet Song” from West Side Story for my junior musical theater piece. However, I’m unsure about what to do regarding some of the lyrics. In the context of the show it’s fine, because racial tension is a major plot point, but at a competition, there won’t be any context (unless someone is already familiar with the show). Here’s a link to the lyrics, in case anyone is unfamiliar. https://www.westsidestory.com/jet-song

What would you recommend? I may be overthinking it, but I am uncomfortable with the “every Puerto Rican is a lousy chicken” line when divorced from the context of the show. I really want to do this song, though, so I can get my Jerome Robbins on!!