Set in 1981, the play dives in to a nostalgic era of synth pop and loud clothes, addressing the political diversity with a screen projecting of a news report. Romeo (Samuel Tracy) and Juliet (Laura Lake Adebisi) find themselves drawn to each other at an exciting dance, expertly choreographed by Nadia Sohawon as the movement director.
The love blossoms between the two as their love is continuously dashed by the bumbling nurse (Amy Loughton) and the various tyrannous Capulets. Amongst street fights with bottles and climbing a ladder instead of a vine, a lovely parallel is created between Brixton and Verona.
Despite the parallels, there was something lacking between the likability and heart of the characters. There was a continuous yearning for more chemistry between our protagonists, despite the nature of their quick romance, and even more of a loving nature between Juliet and her nurse.
Targeted at a younger audience, Southwark’s Romeo and Juliet makes for an accessible and palatable rendition of the tale, the theatre providing over two thousand free tickets to young people at the special matinee performance. The immersive nature of the characters creates an inclusive atmosphere, which is perfect to create excitement for the students going to see it.
Romeo and Juliet will be running until the 5th February.