WPCNR CITY HALL CIRCUIT. From Melissa Lopez, The Mayor's Office. January 3, 2008: Mayor Delfino is pleased to announce that the City of White Plains has been selected as one of five cities nationally to replicate the West Side Story Project. The West Side Story Project is a violence prevention and diversity appreciation youth development initiative that utilizes community resources including the White Plains Police Department, the White Plains Youth Bureau, the White Plains Performing Arts Center, and schools.
White Plains has been selected as one of five cities nationally to replicate the project. Youth are a key partner in the planning and implementation of this project which originated with the Seattle Police Department, the 5th Avenue Theatre/Seattle, and the Seattle Police Foundation.
The themes of West Side Story and its inspiration, Romeo and Juliet, are universal and relevant to the lives of today’s youth. These themes provide a catalyst for important conversations and learning by youth on issues of youth violence, police/youth relationships, and issues of diversity and issues facing immigrants.
The White Plains West Side Story Project will culminate in two Youth Summits for both middle and high school youth featuring workshops based on the film and a performance this spring featuring the highlights.
