Romeo & Juliet
Review by Rowan
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
Creativity at its finest, the Belgrade Theatre does it again with its brand-new production of Romeo and Juliet. Fused with rap, R&B and gospel tones, this brand-new adaptation is Shakespeare's greatest - the love story of two star crossed lovers from rival houses who will stop at nothing to be together.
From the moment you step into the theatre the building is transformed into Verona, with graffiti on the pillars, voting booths and ensemble pacing around the foyer encouraging you to exercise your rights, what for? When you walk into the auditorium you’re met with a QR code and where you are encouraged to vote for the Montagues or the Capulets to rule Verona, the outcome of which influences the show…
Directed by Belgrade Theatre artistic director Corey Campbell and lyrics by 'That's A Rap', the team brings in modern changes to the production that allow it to completely soar in all of the right ways. The young and up-and-coming performers are really what make the show what it is, as it’s fuelled with passion and love of the craft. Highlights include Andre Antonio (Benvolio) Dylan Scott-Lewis (Mercutio) and of course are two leads Mia Khan (Juliet) and Kyle Ndukba (Romeo)
The chemistry between every cast member is electric, with each family bond being completely pure. The love which is shown for the cast, the production and the physical theatre from Campbell, brings a brand new approach to some of the most traditional scenes. This new take offers an almost supernatural experience which engrosses audiences in a way I haven’t seen done before.
A special mention also has to go to the live music, choir and homegrown Belgrade Ensemble that are the backbone of each performance, with the live music shining in the way that only theatre can. Another mention has to go to the technical teams which deal with the scale of this production immensely, showcasing how The Belgrade is expanding with each season.
Romeo and Juliet is in Coventry until the 8th March then travels down south to Bristol before arriving at Hackney Empire in London.