06/03/2026
✨Meet The Cast of West Side Story✨
Maxwell Johnson as Chino
1. What is one thing you like and dislike about your character? One thing that I like about Chino is that he’s loyal. He may not always agree with Bernardo, but he will not actively try to go against him. It’s a testament to their friendship. One thing I dislike is that Chino sometimes feels hollow. Like the scriptwriters didn’t want him to be anything beyond a lackey to Bernardo. While I have enjoyed trying to fill in the gaps, I really wish I knew more about his history.
2. What is your favorite number to perform in the show? My favorite number in this show has to be Tonight (Quintet). The song has been in my playlist since Week 1, and that’s mostly due to how the song reflects the busy and interwoven lives of the people in this city. The blocking for this number is fun as well. The constant focal shift gives everyone a chance to shine. America is a close 2nd though since my sister gets her time to shine.
3. What message hits you most from the show and why? A message that sticks out to me from the show is the coexistence of cultures. Throughout the story, we see the Sharks and the Jets battle over who is superior, and characters like Anita who disregard their heritage to pursue something new, But Tony, Maria, and Doc are the only ones who can really see that value of difference in society. Maria is able to pass this value into the community at the end of the show, which is something I think is needed in the modern era of racial injustice in America.
4. Why should everyone come see “West Side Story”? People should come see this show because it’s one of those rare moments where minority actors get the chance to fill leading roles. It’s not often that this opportunity is presented in our community. It’s
also just an iconic show where you kinda have to go see it if you haven’t already
