RSC Stratford upon Avon until 28th September⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“A fresh delight”
This ballet delights both seasoned audiences and those who have never been beforeIt has been decades since the RSC welcomed a ballet to its stages, and the first time Northern Ballet has come to Stratford-Upon-Avon. Some problems with ballet are its inability to cover the plot sufficiently, this is especially a challenge with tackling Shakespeare at the place where words and text are at the forefront of narrative in its productions. This ballet does not suffer from this problem of conveying narrative. There are moments where you can almost hear the words spoken, akin to effects of a silent movie and delivers the heart of the Shakespeare story, without a spoken word.Northern ballet produce a breath-taking interpretation of the 430-year-old text.
Learning the company spent time with the previous RSC Artistic Director Sir Gregory Doran, a master of the Shakespeare text during rehearsals is evident seeing the absence of words, this company understand and deliver the story, character and nuances of the work, in such a complete and visual way.RSC Co-Artistic Directors Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey said: “To witness Shakespeare’s timeless words translated into the physical language of ballet is sure to be an unmissable experience for audiencesCostume is used as an effective use of storytelling with the Montagues dressed in white with black and gold, differentiated from the Capulets who have red, black and gold as their signature.
This immediately tells us how these different families sit in the world of this production.The stage designs are atmospheric and bold and allows for the simple yet effective way of transporting us from the streets of Verona to the Friars Crypt. It was a slight distraction when the “stone marble pillars” wobble when interacted with by the dancers.
The production whips through the plot and no second is wasted. The meaning fight scenes and riotous partying bring energy and dynamism to the ballet which is juxtaposed with the stillness and dazzling love duets. These intimate moments between Romeo and Juliet, give the audience time to breathe and become swept away in the joy of new love.The character of Juliet is particularly engaging and playful and Romeo showcases his passion and tenderness in his every move. Mercutio brought perfect comic timing with his playful boyish energy.
This is heartbreakingly played out in his death which mimics the story of a boy cries wolf in his final moments and holds as one of the most powerful moments in the ballet.Lady Capulets uncomfortable and contrasting reaction to Tybalt her cousins death compared to her daughter’s apparent death chills and highlights the fraction relationships in Capulet household.There are some creative decisions which I think were unnecessary such as the over sexualisation of the Montague’s towards the Nurse when she is tasked with delivering the letter to Romeo. There is something missing too in the fact the music is not played live: the ballet is performed to a recording. We are aware that this is due to financial reasons, but many believe a recording will never match the excitement and energy a live orchestra. Various Musicians union members were outside the theatre in a very amicable and gentle protest.
Nevertheless, this emotionally charged adaptation of Romeo & Juliet breathes new life into Shakespeare’s masterpiece.Many of you will know ending of this story of love and woe, but it didn't stop the me from leaning forward and investing in every moment of this beautifully told story
Reviewed by Freddy Goymer.
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