Romeo and Juliet
Northern Broadsides in partnership with The New Vic Theatre
Romeo and Juliet
By William Shakespeare
Directed by Barrie Rutter
The Lowry, Tue 3 – Sat 7 June
Press night: Tue 3 June, 7pm
A heart-rending tale of forbidden love, passion and cruel destiny will captivate audiences at The Lowry next month.
Northern Broadsides bring their own inimitable warmth, charisma and energy to William Shakespeare’s timeless classic, Romeo and Juliet. A chance meeting brings together two youngsters from rival families. Determined to pursue their love they risk all to be together and pay the ultimate price for their devotion.
A series of unforgettable scenes include the flamboyant masked ball complete with rousing clog dancing, a thrilling percussive fight sequence and a large dose of original music performed live on stage by the cast.
Northern Broadsides, Artistic Director, Barrie Rutter commented: “It’s a reminder of how invincible young lovers are and how immortal young love is and yet how outrageously vulnerable at the same time: lest we ‘grown-ups’ forget!”
Associate Director, Conrad Nelson composes a thrilling original musical score which includes a jug band, percussive fight sequences and song. His music has been described by The Guardian as Northern Broadsides’ ‘secret weapon’.
Conrad explains: “Fiddles, accordion, trumpets and cajon combine in an eclectic mix, borrowing from Blues, Cajun and English Folk music. The music reflects the mood and heat of the climate whilst regular rhythms of the celebratory dance still echo in our ears.”
For the past 15 years, Northern Broadsides have delighted audiences here and abroad with a growing classic repertoire which has won them many awards. They became the first company in Britain to perform permanently in the round. Known for a high degree of theatrical inventiveness and robust performances their multi-talented cast of northern actors all perform in their natural voices, bringing renewed impact to the drama.
Posted on Wednesday, 28 May 2008 under Press Theatre Press