"Shakespeare’s iconic lovers are given a fresh new vibe and Toronto takes centre stage in this reimagined tale."

There are few who have not been exposed to this tragedy of star-crossed lovers (the expression itself comes from this play). Director, Jack Burrill, pulls double duty (Burrill is also on stage as Capulet). For the most part, this show moves with great energy and with wonderful urgency and the fight sequences are remarkable (Fight Choreographer Sheldon Williams is a name to watch).
This young company with Morgan Bojie (Producer) and Reuben Stewart (Production Manager) carries real potential and some innovative staging created unforgettable moments. Case in point, the balcony scene, traditionally played on two levels, is ingeniously blocked and lit without losing a beat of the intimacy and the heightened romanticism. Congratulations to Annika Flores (the lighting technician) and Burrill for providing such a fantastic moment in that theatre space. Also, the masks by Teodoro and Esther Dragonieri added to the elegance and impact of Romeo and Juliet’s first meeting.

As for the performances, the cast is up to the task and carry the show vibrantly. A highlight is Reuben Stewart as the Nurse and Escalus. Stewart imbues the characters with impeccable comedic timing and naturalism. The actors are at all times engaged and committed to their performances.
That being said, there were a number of times that the text was rushed that it derailed the pacing and nuance and relationship was lost. A number of the monologues and dialogue between the lovers would be enhanced by allowing the text to settle and sit with the audience. I found there were some crucial moments in the story that would truly resonate if the actors gave themselves the time and space to simply breathe and speak. This would engage the audience far more effectively. There is added text, and though thought provoking and intelligent, set in moments where Shakespeare pundits would question its placement. This does not deter from the fact that it does add a layer of realism and brings the play into a local point of reference. Overall, I applaud Burrill and his team for taking the risk.

Unfortunately, at the time of writing, “Romeo and Juliet” played its final show on August 24 but I encourage theatre audiences to look out for this talented and dedicated group. It was indeed worth the trip to the Assembly Theatre to see this classic yet reinvented love story.

Assembly Theatre 1479 Queen St. W.
Running time: 180 minutes.

Director: Jack Burrill
Production Manager: Reuben Stewart
Producer: Morgan Bojie
Cast: Alison Adams, Morgan Bojie, Brody Burrill, Jack Burrill, Alessandra Cavllini, Erick Hernandez, Rose Montano, James Ryan, Lenin Segovia, Cianna Stevens, Reuben Stewart, Sheldon Williams.