Salisbury Playhouse has rewritten the way in which Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is staged. Using the entire premises of the Theatre, audiences are moved from scene to scene as the classic love story unfolds. Each audience member are given headphones when they arrive at the Theatre and are to be worn throughout the performance for crystal clear commentary.
Every audience member treads the red carpet as they enter the Playhouse, which has been transformed into The House of the Capulets Mansion with large portraits of the family around the venue and a vast selection of ornate luxury fittings and furniture. Along with dignitaries mingling and conversing with the audience.
Juliet, played by Grace Wylde, falls in love with Romeo (Will Fletcher). A classic boy meets a girl love story. Until they realise they belong to two different families who have a long, engrained history of being enemies. The Capulets and the Montague finally call a truce, which unfortunately is far too late for the young couple.
The famous balcony scene is set on one of Theatre’s balconies, complete with glorious window boxes in full bloom. A section of the car park near the Theatre sees the fight break out between the Capulets and the Montagues. It’s an atmospheric setting for the for the feuding families to first meet in the play. The action takes place all around you and from different levels, which brings the story to life brilliantly.
A special mention has to go to Will Jennings in the role of Mercutio. He offers an impressive lyrical portrayal of Romeo’s best friend, who is known to be a charismatic chatterbox who constantly teases his friend about his love for Juliet.
Director Gareth Machin and designer Zoe Squire have produced a production that is a superb visual immersive experience that takes Romeo and Juliet to another level, and you feel that you become part of the storyline. This production has left a lasting impression.
My only advice would be to wear comfortable shoes to this production as there’s a fair amount of walking, and you get to see parts of the Playhouse, which are usually closed off to audiences.
Romeo and Juliet is one of the most famous plays that there aren’t any spoiler alerts when it comes to the ending. Where it takes place has been specially created and offers a dramatic climax to this extraordinary production.
For more information about Romeo and Juliet and future productions at Salisbury Playhouse, please use the link below.
Five Stars
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
Leave a comment