This Spring, Belgrade Theatre, Bristol Old Vic and Hackney Empire are hosting a modern take on Romeo and Juliet breathes new life into Shakespeare’s classic tragedy with the bold addition of rap and R&B. This high-concept adaptation seeks to blend contemporary political commentary with timeless themes of love and conflict, resulting in a production that is as thought-provoking as it is ambitious.
The show initially struggles to find its rhythm, with the first act feeling somewhat disjointed and hesitant. However, once it settles, the pace picks up considerably, delivering a dynamic and engaging narrative. The use of rap and R&B as the primary mediums for dialogue and storytelling adds an energetic and innovative layer to the production.
While the modernisation efforts are largely effective, there are a few missteps. Juliet’s portrayal, particularly in the second act, feels overly forceful and one-dimensional. Her emotional arc is often overshadowed by a shouty delivery, which diminishes the complexity of her character. This is balanced by Romeo’s more nuanced and compelling performance. An additional focus is put on Benvolio as a narrator-like character opening and closing the show with heavy rap.
The inclusion of projections featuring figures like Nigel Farage and Priti Patel offers a timely political edge. These moments resonate as sharp commentary on the social and political divides of today, aligning cleverly with the story’s themes of entrenched family conflict and societal fractures.
The show's innovative approach and modern touches are highly effective, and I hope they attract a younger audience to Shakespeare.
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