Bows After West Side Story

I'm currently an assistant director on a local production of West Side Story. Wondering if it would be appropriate to have bows after the final scene or if it would kill the mood. I saw a production where they bowed to 'America' after the final procession and it honestly ruined the show for me. I want the actors to get applause but not without ruining the atmosphere of the finale. Seriously considering just not including bows to preserve the message of the piece Any tips?

My opinion is that you should let the lights go down, and when the audience starts to applaud, bring the lights up for one full company bow, no music. Maybe let Tony and Maria step forward and take individual bows, but, yeah, bowing to America sounds.. like an interesting choice

The Distinctive Baritone said: "I believe a somber company bow is what is done in most Robbins estate sanctioned productions, with Tony, Maria, and Anita then stepping forward together."

That certainly wasn’t the case in the last revival.