Faction of Fools' Captivating Rendition of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet
Lauded by The Washington Post as "cheerfully rough-hewn" with an infusion of "capering, roughhousing physicality," and acclaimed by DC Theatre Scene as "a refreshingly old-school classic with modern-day flair," featuring "Muppet-level doses of energy," the theatrical rendition of William Shakespeare's enduring masterpiece, Romeo and Juliet, takes center stage under the adept direction of Kathryn Zoerb.
This compelling interpretation unravels the poignant narrative of two young lovers entangled in a family feud. Imbued with the rich traditions of Italian Commedia dell’Arte, the one-hour performance seamlessly blends physical spectacularity with the poetic brilliance of Shakespeare. The production artfully navigates the juxtaposition of tragedy and humor, creating a captivating theatrical experience.
Faction of Fools' remount of Romeo and Juliet offers a distinctive theatrical journey with two rotating casts —the "Montague Cast" and the "Capulet Cast," named after the protagonists, Romeo Montague and Juliet Capulet. The ensemble encompasses key members from their respective families and households, enriching the portrayal of the timeless feud.
The Montague Cast boasts talents like Deimoni Brewington, Francesca Chilcote, Max Johnson, Mary Myers, and Jasmine Proctor. Meanwhile, the Capulet Cast features the dynamic performances of Travis Xavier Brown, Natalie Cutcher, Bri Houtman, Ben Lauer, and Robert Pike.
Under the original conception and direction of Matthew R. Wilson, the Faction of Fools Theatre Company strategically chose Romeo and Juliet as its maiden foray into full-length Shakespearean productions, transcending the confines of mere scene selections.
The production's inherent challenge lies in harmonizing two distinct artistic forms—Commedia dell’Arte's exaggerated stock comic roles and Shakespeare's sublime characters delivering iambic pentameter. This ambitious endeavor transforms the staging into a spectacle of remarkable magnitude, showcasing the company's dedication to pushing artistic boundaries and providing audiences with a truly immersive theatrical experience. Tickets are on sale. Click on the image below for tickets and additional information on the upcoming performances.
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