Amina Bhuiyan
Though not the most visually rich set, with basic lighting and a bare stage (save for a wooden bench, a lamp and a window on the blacked out box-like platform), Broadway Studio Catford made up for it in the high calibre of the acting.
It’s a big task to make such archaic language seem relevant and understandable to a modern audience, and this gallant attempt was very well received. The predominantly young cast mastered the language, and I felt the meaning of each phrase too with clear ennunciation and projection .
As a play that most people have studied at some point, this particular Shakespearean play remains one that I believe few people understand the full depth of and humour in. The cast’s clever use of very modern inflections and tone to convey these were pleasantly entertaining, but not so much so that it detracted from the beauty of the language itself.
The fight scenes were particularly breath-taking to watch: a beautiful medley of rhythmic body slapping and stamping and choreographed fight sequences fluidly created a very visually compelling soundscape.
Asia Osbourne’s production was an overall triumph, however what I found a little jarring was the modern dress: I felt that it worked despite nothing else being modern and it seemingly having no significance, the one exception being the high street branded boxers peering out from beneath all of the boys’ second-skin skinny jeans!
Another modern update which I thought may be a digression too far was Osborne’s decision to use a gun in the death of Tybalt; I would be interested to discuss what significance this was intended to lend.
This love story lives eternally across most cultures and it’s countless and frequent reproductions prove this so. This particular performance updated the presentation of Shakespeare’s play in a very relevant, relatable and enjoyable way. More shows that keep true to the integrity of their originals ought to be produced, in order to keep our rich British literary history alive and exciting to a new, younger audience.
Romeo and Juliet is playing at the Broadway Theatre Catford until 26 February. For more information and tickets, see the Broadway Theatre’s website.