Romeo and Juliet - Marloo Theatre

This show begins on Friday 31 August. From last night's preview show, I was sent this review. Enjoy. Melz.


Romeo and Juliet by The Darlington Theatre Players Inc.
Reviewed by Ruth Bertenshaw.

The story of Romeo and Juliet needs no introduction, star-crossed lovers marred by family tragedy, at one time or another we’ve all studied the text or seen it acted out, but when was the last time you revisited this classic? This is a story which has been retold in many ways but the Darlington Theatre Players’ recent interpretation of William Shakespeare’s masterpiece is traditional; right down to the imitation Globe theatre set design, authentic and does justice to an amazing script.

Directed by experienced actor and director Douglas Sutherland-Bruce, the production of this play is of a very high standard, from the casting of strong actors in lead roles, to the wonderful soundtrack of Elizabethan music and song. The simplicity of the set, to the emphasis on action in the fighting scenes and the wonderful calm during the tragedy. The sense of history is effortlessly intertwined with a text laced with themes relevant to today’s society; revenge, love, suicide, family feuds, etc, etc. With a play held in such high regard, delivering a performance to match is a tough challenge to meet, and in this production it truly was a case of the more talented actors rising to the challenge when portraying the key characters.

The handsome Derek Clauson excels in his role of Romeo Montague, the rash, highly-strung thwarted suitor. His strength lies in every aspect of his deliverance; his body language and expressive tone was nothing short of truly believable and the deliverance of key lines, impeccable. At the balcony scene, the unmistakeable words “But soft! What light through yonder window breaks? It is the East, and Juliet is the sun!” actually took my breath away. Equally captivating was the portrayal of sweet Juliet, by the beautiful Katy Mitton, who managed to blend the innocence of a young girl with the determination of a woman in love. It was a treat to watch her deal with the gritty material in act two where real tears at hearing of Romeo’s banishment, commanded a hush over the audience. Together both actors brought the beauty and intimacy of a love affair to life in front of our very eyes. Although this play is centred on two focal characters, it is supported by a host of other roles and these were all worthy of commendation. The humour, emotion and affection Jacqui Warner brought to the role of Juliet’s loveable nurse was fantastic, and intermittently Phil Mackenzie stole the stage with his grumbling, hard-fisted portrayal of Lord Capulet. I was intrigued and entertained by David Sorensen who gave a of flair to the role of Mercutio and Lisa Skrypichayko delivered a consistent and strong performance as Juliet’s mother.

At times the stage and backstage elements were slightly out of snyc but one imagines these are aspects to any production which will be smoothed out over future performances. Essentially what puts people off Shakespeare is the long-winded Elizabethan language and what can make it all the more palatable is the delivery, which is true of this performance. The words, when broken down are fascinating and beautiful, when fully understood. But as long as they are delivered with the right tone and inflection, it is easy to understand the message and emotion behind them. This was done to an impeccable degree by a strong main cast of actors.

If you’re wondering whether or not to venture out in the cold and the rain this winter; remind yourself why this is one of the most enduring and revered love stories of all time, and why community theatre always gets such rave reviews