West Side Story Vs. Romeo and Juliet

I know that West Side Story was based on Romeo and Juliet, but to compare the two just doesn't seem fair. I say fair because while the language and songs of West Side Story are fun and catchy, they don't compare to the rhythm and importance of Shakespeare's Iambic Pentameter. After delving into that style, I began to understand why it was written the way it was and what Shakespeare was trying to do with the style. I like Musical Theatre, don't get me wrong, but three is something more tragic in Rome and Juliet in that they both take their lives for one another. They make the ultimate sacrifice so that their families can live in peace for the years to come. Maria lives after watching Tony get shot, no one wants to see that! The songs are what keep people coming back to West Side Story. If gangs today were run like they are there, then I don't thing we'd be having any problems. I guess "gang wars" would turn into "dance off's" and everyone would go home happy. Also the way that people die in R&J is much better. You have your stabbing with Rapier's, secret death/love potions, and happy daggers. Now, if Maria had capped a few gang members after taking the gun near the end, I may have a different opinion about the show, but instead she doesn't and everyone becomes friends.   This is a bit of Iambic Pentameter (I think) I wrote comparing the two:

Compare the two, R and J, West Side Story.

Romeo Died, and then did Juliet.

Tony Died, but Maria was like "nope."

One had songs and cheer, the other erry'one dies. 

Musical Theatre is about Cash.