An Energetic 'Romeo and Juliet' at Spotlighters

“Two households, both alike in dignity/In fair Verona, where we lay our scene/From ancient grudge break to new mutiny/Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean./ From forth the fatal loins of these two foes/A pair of star-cross'd lovers take their life/Whose misadventured piteous overthrows/Do with their death bury their parents' strife.”

Photo by Chris Aldridge

Arguably the world’s most famous love story, William Shakespeare’s classic, Romeo and Juliet, has been performed for centuries and along with Hamlet is one of Shakespeare’s most popular plays.  Written sometime between 1591 and 1595 during the Elizabethan era, it had been adapted numerous times for stage, film, musical theatre and opera.

Over the years, producers and directors have taken some liberties by modifying the original play, and in one case, Georg Benda in the 18^th century, removed much of the action and gave it a happy ending.  The Spotlighters energetic production, directed by Lance Bankerd, did not veer from the original to the extent that Benda’s version did, but Mr. Bankerd, who is making his Spotlighters directorial debut, took a chance and inserted a wrinkle that will be discussed later.

For full review, visit MD Theatre Guide.

#HoCoArts

Shakespeare Factory Produces a Fresh 'Romeo & Juliet'



Brendan Edward Kennedy (Romeo)

and Kathryn Zoerb (Juliet) Photo: Will Kirk

William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is an ancient play as it was written sometime between 1591 and 1595.  The language used, Elizabethan English, is rather arcane.  And the costumes reflect 16^th century everyday wardrobe.  But the Baltimore Shakespeare Factory’s production of Romeo and Juliet, though staying true to the original work, adds a dose of freshness and contemporary whimsy that makes it a fun experience—the play’s tragedies notwithstanding.  An unexpected moment, for example, occurs when cast members begin to dance to “Call Me Maybe” during the play.

The Baltimore Shakespeare Factory prides itself on presenting their plays that are authentically Shakespeare in the manner in which they are staged.  Three productions this season take place in a venue that was once a church but is formatted so that the seating, all pews, is arranged on both sides of the stage as well as in front.  (Two other plays this season will be performed in an outdoor setting.) 

To read full review, visit MD Theatre Guide.