With a snap of a finger in its opening prologue, “West Side Story” changed the course of American musical theater more than 50 years ago. Inspired by Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” the musical about two rival street gangs in New York City is known for its innovative use of dance, music and subject matter.

The Tony Award-winning musical is currently on tour and will make a stop Jan. 3-8 at the Keller Auditorium in Portland.

Created by Arthur Laurents, “West Side Story” originally premiered at the Winter Garden Theatre on Sept. 26, 1957. The production featured choreography and direction by Jerome Robbins, music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

Unlike previous musicals, where people would burst into song and dance at the drop of a hat, “West Side Story” was propelled by the dance. According to press materials, “Robbins created a dance language unique to the show: much of the choreography is based more on street movement than on familiar dance steps, and there was a reason or emotion behind every movement, every gesture.”

The choreography and popular musical score — featuring “Something’s Coming,” “Tonight,” “America” and “I Feel Pretty” — gained further acclaim with the release of the musical’s motion picture version starring Natalie Wood, Richard Beymer and Rita Moreno. Winner of 10 Academy Awards, the film is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary.

The current touring production is based on the musical’s 2009 Broadway revival, “a tougher, more real production of ‘West Side Story,’” according to a news release. Changes from the original production include a removal of some of its musical theater comedy elements and some dated dialogue. The Puerto Rican characters also sometimes sing and speak in Spanish for added authenticity. The new production was nominated for Best Musical Revival at the 2009 Tony Awards.

Ticket prices range from $22 to $71 (plus service charges), depending on seat location and day of performance. To purchase tickets, visit www.ticketmaster.com or call 800-745-3000.

For more information on “West Side Story,” visit www.westsideontour.com.