Written by William Shakespeare
Directed by Peter Evans
Bell Shakespeare
The Playhouse, Canberra Theatre Centre to 7 September
Reviewed by Len Power 31 August 2025
Believed to have been written between 1591 and 1595, Shakespeare’s tragedy of ‘a pair of star cross’d lovers’ and their feuding families is one of his most popular plays.
The new production by director, Peter Evans, combines contemporary and traditional elements to bring clarity to both text and performance. The shining, dark set and basic black costumes, both designed by Anna Tregloan, make it clear that we are watching the play from a contemporary point of view.
The addition of colourful and traditional items of costume, as the play progresses, draw us back into the time and place of the story. The forest of overhead lighting, designed by Benjamin Cisterne, keeps the contemporary feel of the play while providing the atmosphere necessary for the various scenes. It is an attractive and successful overall design.
The contemporary aspects extend to the choice of actors, too. Age and gender have not driven the casting. Surrounding the young lovers are actors of similar age playing Juliet’s parents, the Friar, Mercutio, the Prince and others, stressing that we are watching a contemporary version of the play. While the story of the play never fails to involve, the style of production allows us to keep a slight distance, providing an opportunity to observe the play with great clarity.
There are some fine performances in this production. Madeline Li is a feisty, intelligent Juliet and Ryan Hodson appeals as an impetuous and personable Romeo knocked off balance by his sudden deep love for Juliet, leaving his youth behind. Both gave finely balanced and emotionally believable performances during their balcony scene. The final scene as they meet their deaths was superbly played and very moving.
Every performer in the ensemble was impressive with outstanding performances by Merridy Eastman as the Nurse, Khisraw Jones-Shukoor as the Friar and Brittany Santariga in the dual roles of the Prince and Mercutio.
Regardless of how many times you have seen it, Shakespeare’s play never fails to move an audience. This production is particularly successful because of its clarity and fine performances.
Photo by Pierre Toussaint
Len Power's reviews are also broadcast on Artsound FM 92.7 in the ‘Arts Cafe’ and ‘Arts About’ programs.
