Got Love?

If you ever wondered what Shakespeare might look like set in a modern-day, Gotham-like city, with Wall Street power players, mob bosses, and gangs ruling the roost, then you won’t want to miss the Darrow School Theater Workshop’s performance of the classic Romeo & Juliet. The show will run November 13 at 7:00 p.m. and November 14 at 3:00 p.m., and is free and open to the public.

Under Performing Arts Director Will McGreal, Darrow’s theater program has been branching out in bold dramatic directions. McGreal says, “In the fall production, students are invested heavily in the design and concept of the play. They create everything from the sets to the lighting and the costumes. Shakespeare lends itself well to this kind of collaboration and in-depth study.”

This production of the familiar tale of star-crossed lovers takes a cinematic approach by not only setting the story in a contemporary environment, but also by intercutting scenes and using music to develop themes for major characters. While the original Shakespearean English will be retained, the performers’ line readings are aimed at bringing the text clearly and vibrantly to life.

In addition, the Theater Workshop crew is working on ways to present the prologue and epilogue through modern technology. McGreal reports, “It’s exciting Shakespeare. It’s vivid, and it’s real for both the students and the audience. It’s not going to feel dated or period, and the language is going to be very understandable.” 

The production of Romeo & Juliet kicks off an ambitious season of performances for Darrow, which will include the School’s annual presentation of Winter Revels, a celebration of the solstice and global holiday traditions; a series of one-acts in March; and several concerts featuring Darrow’s chorus, jazz ensemble, and rock band.