As casting continues on West Side Story, Rita Moreno – who won a Best Supporting Actress Oscar for her role as Anita in the 1961 movie – has now signed on to appear in the Steven Spielberg-directed remake.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I see myself revisiting this seminal work,” says Moreno. “And to be asked by Steven Spielberg to participate is simply thrilling! Then to work together with the brilliant playwright, Tony Kushner – what a glorious stew! I am tingling!”
Deadline reports that Moreno will take on the role of Valentina, a reconceived version of Doc, the owner of the store where Tony (Ansel Elgort) works.
“From our earliest discussions, we wanted to include Rita Moreno in our production,” said Spielberg. “Her Anita is one of the greatest musical performances ever filmed, and a personal favorite of mine. We created an original role for her, and we feel beyond fortunate that Rita will bring her extraordinary gifts as an actress, as well as her deep understanding of ‘West Side Story’ to this production as an executive producer.”
Based on the 1957 stage musical, West Side Story centres on the rivalry between two teenage street gangs, the Jets and the Sharks, with Tony, a former member of the Jets and best friend of its leader Riff, falling in love with Maria, the sister of the Sharks’ leader Bernardo.
