Tribute to Carole D’Andrea: Star of West Side Story
Carole D’Andrea, widely recognized for her captivating portrayal of Velma, the Jet girl in the iconic 1957 Broadway production of West Side Story, and the subsequent 1961 film adaptation, has passed away at the age of 87. The actress succumbed to heart failure on March 11 at her home in Santa Monica, California, as reported by her daughter Andrea Doven to The Hollywood Reporter.
A Legacy of Talent and Resilience
D’Andrea’s remarkable career in theater began in Altoona, Pennsylvania, where she was born on August 28, 1937. A graduate of Altoona Area High School, she initially showcased her talent as a majorette. After the tragic loss of her parents in a car accident, D’Andrea made the bold decision to forgo a scholarship to Penn State University to pursue her dreams in New York City.
Her breakthrough role as Velma in West Side Story marked a significant milestone in her career. The musical, which debuted at the Winter Garden Theatre, featured masterful direction and choreography by Jerome Robbins and a compelling book by Arthur Laurents. Notably, D’Andrea was among only six cast members from the original Broadway production to appear in the film adaptation, alongside Tony Mordente, Tommy Abbott, William Bramley, Jay Norman, and David Winters.
Broadway and Beyond
Subsequently, D’Andrea was offered a role in the 1959 Broadway musical Gypsy, where she was initially cast to play Dainty June in a production starring Ethel Merman. Despite being replaced at the last minute, her talent did not go unnoticed by Robbins, who later brought her back for the film version of West Side Story, reimagining her character as Velma, now portrayed as the girlfriend of Ice (Tucker Smith)—a role specifically crafted for the film.
Personal Life and Teaching Career
In 1961, D’Andrea married Tony award-winning actor Robert Morse, with whom she had three daughters: Andrea, Robin, and Hilary, who have also pursued careers in acting. After her marriage, she opted to step back from the spotlight to focus on raising her family. In later years, D’Andrea transitioned into teaching acting, initially at Carnegie Hall and later in Hollywood, where she continued to inspire new generations of actors.
Courtesy Everett Collection
A Lasting Influence
Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, D’Andrea adapted her teaching methods to online formats, continuing to impart her knowledge and passion for the performing arts up until a week before her passing. She leaves behind a legacy that extends beyond her performances, including her grandchildren: Lucia, Francis, Jagger, Marlon, and Lance.
In a poignant note, her daughters reflected on the timing of her death, as it coincided with the 44th anniversary of her sobriety from Alcoholics Anonymous, a day she often described as a transformative turning point in her life.