The first time I saw West Side Story, I was sitting in my ninth grade English class as we studied William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. While the finale of the Broadway musical is slightly less tragic than the original plot, I still feel emotional every time I hear "Somewhere." Something about adding a melody to an already bittersweet story just makes it all the more powerful.
I've watched the Technicolor film tons of times since that academic screening, and a few live productions as well, but I can say with certainty that I've never seen it performed quite like it is in the clip below. Pop star Cher is known for her flamboyant brand of talent, so when she was given her own variety special in 1978, viewers knew she wouldn't disappoint. The humbly titled Cher… Special featured guests Dolly Parton and Rod Stewart, but neither were present for her opening homage to the musical.
In fact, the only person accompanying Cher is, well, Cher herself. That's right, the iconic songstress takes on every role from the rough and tumble Jets to the soft and sweet Maria. Though the technology is visibly dated, you can't help but applaud her gusto as she launches into an abridged version.
Before introducing the segment, Cher is dressed as a childish version of herself and explaining to her mother how she wants to audition for every character in her school's production. The flashback moment makes it clear just how long she's dreamt of this moment.
As an adult, she finally made it a reality!
Take a look and be sure to SHARE with all the Cher fans you know!
