Gabriela Centurion

Beverley Viljoen (standing at left) starring as Maria, points a knife during a rehearsal of the scene where Tony is killed in ACLO's production of West Side Story, set to open July 11.

One shot and your brother is dead. One look and you lose yourself in love.

Just two of the plot lines in the multifaceted musical, West Side Story, a script saturated with the innocence of love, the bigotry of racial violence and the intricacies of familial relations. West Side Story leads off the Alameda Civic Light Opera's 2008 summer season. The relevance of the musical's themes and its tasteful expression of both gang warfare and the continuing struggle against racism augment its ability to strike audiences.

Jeff Teague, executive artistic director of ACLO and director and choreographer of West Side Story, said it is the "poignancy and relevance to political and especially social issues," that he enjoys most about directing this particular musical.

Beverley Viljoen leads as "Maria;" her singing and acting both shine. Viljoen is clearly dedicated to the intensity of the musical's themes. Viljoen notes that her favorite tune is "'A Boy Like That' with 'Anita' because she gets compassion for my love."

Robert Lopez, the male lead, brings a certain lightheartedness to the role of "Tony" while exercising his striking vocal range. Donna Rapa-Olsen adds Latin flare with her portrayal of "Anita," who she describes as "independent and feisty."

Rehearsals for West Side Story began May 11 and performers are now practicing six days a week. The rehearsals are lively and rambunctious but serious when called for. "Your reaction is as important as [Maria's] reaction," director Teague instructs the actors, demonstrating the time worn phrase that there are no small parts in a production.

West Side Story runs for three consecutive weekends with performances on July 12, 13, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27 at 8 p.m. Matinee performances on July 13, 20 and 27 begin at 2 p.m. All performances are at Kofman Auditorium. The Target Family Back Stage Pass matinee will be July 20. It features half-priced tickets for juniors (ages 17 and under) and a post-performance back stage tour where families can meet the actors.

ACLO continues its summer season with Forever Plaid from Aug. 9 to 24 at the Alameda High School Little Theater. The summer season finishes with a revivalof the Broadway hit Grease, which runs Sept 6 to 21.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.aclo.com or by calling the box office at 864-2256. Reduced prices apply to seniors (65 and over) and those 17 and younger; discounts are also available for groups or for individuals purchasing tickets for the entire summer season.