Review: ROMEO & JULIET, Creation Theatre (Online)
“Two households, both alike in dignity, in fair Verona, where we lay our scene...”
How well do you know the story of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet?
Are you a Montague or a Capulet?
If you had the chance to change the story, would you? But what if the ending is something you cannot escape?
Creation Theatre’s virtual performance of Romeo and Juliet is a unique portrayal of the famous story of the star-crossed lovers that we all know and love. By using a blend of live performance through Zoom, pre-recorded videos and interactive features, we get to see the story of these two lovers through a completely different lens. Just as director Natasha Rickman states: “digital theatre is now its own art form” and it is safe to say, Besties, that this performance supports this idea very much.
The ability for audiences to choose the path they wish to go down is a different approach to a classical play and something that brings light to the world of theatre - other theatre companies might benefit from taking a page out of Creation Theatre’s book to introduce more interactivity and experience into their performances, especially when emerging from the effects of the pandemic.
The multimedia effect adds interesting layers to the performance; the live scenes bring us memories of live theatre and being able to see other audience members in the Zoom viewfinder solidifies this. The pre-recorded scenes that audiences get to choose brings an interesting layer of audience participation and direct involvement, allowing us to be the story and not just see it. Though at times the execution of story working in sync with the interactive elements is occasionally misguided, the performance overall is an interesting experience. The camera effects and editing features are literal layers within themselves, almost creating an abstract feel, which is new and engaging.
And of course, we must applaud the performances given by the actors and actresses, as well as the direction given by Natasha Rickman - performing and directing a Shakespeare play can be daunting in itself, but the ability to do so through digital theatre is a skill that is rarely seen and must be commended!
The theme of fate adds a clever twist to this performance - no matter which story you choose, no matter which path you choose, is the ending something that cannot be escaped? Were the star-crossed lovers from fair Verona always fated to die?
You tell me, Besties. Which household do you belong to? Which path will you choose?
***’ Three and a half stars
Reviewed by: Megan Webb
Romeo & Juliet runs until 23 May. For more information and to book tickets, please click here.