Blair’s Modern Take On A Classic

From November 13th to November 22nd, Blair held its annual fall play, this rerun showcasing the infamous story of Romeo and Juliet. After four months of rehearsal and elusive set scenery, the production emphasized a tight-knit watchalong experience by placing the performance in the black box setup in the auditorium, up close and personal. The directorial debut for Natalia Garcia Ruiz reimagined Romeo and Juliet from a grounding perspective with the inclusion of Gen Z slang in Shakespearean dialogue and production design replicating reality TV show “Love Island.” In addition, modern costumes served as a vehicle for character development, specifically with Romeo’s (Asher Howel) transition from a braggadocious character into an emotionally invested romantic, creating a unique interpretation on forbidden love, when compared to other melodramatic takes. 

Directorial Details

While the whole premise of the performance highlights a tumultuous relationship, the juxtaposition between two eras plays into a cohesive societal critique of traditionalism. Modern aspects like neon swimwear and villa style furniture are at the forefront of the show, however, the dominance of patriarchy in relationships during the Shakespearean era, shown by Juliet (Casey Pendergast) and her father, Lord Capulet (Riley MacArthur), answered the central theme: “What happens when outside forces try to control our hearts?” The dynamic between father and daughter was acted out extremely well by the two actors, expressing Juliet’s rebellion and subservience perfectly while setting up the father as a dominant, almost untouchable figure.

In addition to the critique, the choices in lighting and costume design, as previously expressed, engage the audience, making every clap after a scene feel earned as it takes spectators through an emotional rollercoaster amplified by set design and the personal black box. For example, while Romeo was going through an angry outburst, the set lights engulfed the entire space in a red hue, symbolizing the anger and stressful environment caused by this love exchange. The little details that go unnoticed but rile up emotions make the entire experience a great watch. As a directorial debut, the play sets a good precedent for upcoming performances in the year.

R&J

Photo: Juliet meets Romeo with a smile

Juliet meets Romeo with a smile Photo courtesy of Zach Carter.

Performances

Apart from the already mentioned performances of Juliet, Romeo, and Lord Capulet, side characters were the backbone of the story, adding comedic relief to a plot filled with death and misery. In the initial acts, Mercutio (Ben Kirby) drove the plot with his indirect description of Romeo’s personality, painting him as someone preoccupied with drinking, parties, and other leisure activities, setting the character up for a transformative change when he meets Juliet. In a way, Mercutio served as a jester, charismatic while using humor to critique high society. Kirby did a fantastic job. It was noticeable because after his sudden death, which sparks the entire climax, the plot becomes filled with distress.

Additionally, Juliet’s Nurse (Brighida Abella Reynolds) acted as a strong bridge between being charismatic and supportive to Juliet, the chemistry between the two actors really developed into a motherly love as the plot unfolded. In the end, the dynamic was exceptionally captured during Juliet’s death: while all the accusations and punitive scenes were unraveling, the Nurse stuck by Juliet’s side, weeping. Once again, really well acted.

Conclusion

This year’s interpretation of Romeo and Juliet was full of the same symbolism and expression from its first adaptation 400 years ago, but the creative takes on making it a Blair performance stood out the most in an otherwise infamous, somewhat bland original storyline. From choices like the black box to the soundtrack, Blair’s fall production was a fun watch. Make sure to look out for future drama performances in Sankofa and the spring musical.