A classic tragedy with romanticism weaved within it, Romeo and Juliet may be one of William Shakespeare’s biggest triumphs. A tragic love story where two star-crossed protagonists fall in forbidden love yet are forced to be sworn enemies who eventually are drafted into their family’s chaotic conflict. Juliet is sentenced to marry Count Paris, which subsequently means Romeo and Juliet are unable to be together resulting in the pairs bittersweet demise but is juxtaposed as peace and unification is developed. It is one of the most praised and admired plays ever to be written, and this rendition fulfils expectations impressively.
The play was performed at the Royal Exchange Theatre in the significantly cultural city of Manchester. Vividly representing similarities to the actual globe theatre, I feared the actors would have the challenge of always having their backs to a segment of the audience, however my concerns were diluted as they flawlessly used the space to their advantage. Since there was always something happening in each direction. A minimalistic setting allowed the actors to easily move and not be interrupted by an object that could have blocked views of potential scenes. But this was only a small taste of the further successes to come. . .
In my opinion, the acting was sublime and perfectly coordinated, creating a beautiful orchestration that possessed everything Romeo and Juliet provided while further elaborating. The two protagonists were fluent, constantly creating a *Stanislavski naturalism that impressed the audience continuously. The tension and conflict from the separate families only added to the atmosphere, which although orientated around the love story were able to establish themselves independently. As the action scenes were exhilarating and were only enhanced with the use of fake blood, once again an addition to the naturalism. When characters perished, they weren’t clunky or awkward but conveyed a real sense of sorrow and alternatively satisfaction was felt when characters such as Tybalt died. Elaborating on Tybalt, the actors use of tone to convey his anger and hatred for Montague’s was very effective, for the short while he was on the stage he did a bewildering performance, he created a staggering impression certainly leaving his impression on the audience. The rest of the cast also used the actual stage and placement of the audience effectively, each actor delivering their impact and presence. Personally, I believe by far that the greatest scene of the play was the denouement. Being identical to the actual play, which was comforting, the true compassion and guilt exchanged by Romeo and Juliet was so natural that it was a pleasure to witness. Within it, I truly felt transported to the fourteenth century the acting and dialogue was outstanding, despite the occasional addition it stuck to the original play, so thank you.
Although the play was something to be admired, it had certain areas that I felt were shallow or felt like unnecessary additions, only included to distance your adaptation from the original. Most notably, the costume design and interactions with the audience created confusion and awkwardness upon occasion. I think the costume design lacked any naturalism or representation of the fourteenth century leaving a feeling of disappointment and disheartenment. I believe more lavish attire would have suited and have been another celebrated addition to the play; however, I was pleased when in the funeral scene the majority of the characters wore mournful clothes developing a perfect setting and atmosphere. Another example I have addressed is the interactions with the audience, most notably at the Capulet’s party. I can understand why the attraction was there to break the fourth wall, but I felt it was just underwhelming and hilariously awkward. Watching stone faced members of the audience stay sat down certainly made me cringe, I admire your confidence to include these scenes but personally I would have stuck to naturalism.
Despite my two addresses, the play was a magnificence and melancholic play that certainly has restored my faith in modern interpretations of classic tragedies. A true triumph, and I would undoubtedly recommend this production to any Shakespeare admirer. From myself and a very similar opinioned audience, thank you.
*Stanislavski wanted his actors to perform naturalistically, this means that the audience should feel like they are watching something that reflects reality. Because the performance is naturalistic the audience gets drawn in to believing what they see and becoming emotionally involved.
The Northern Newsletter 