Review: Romeo and Juliet, Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury
[gallery] Shakespeare's ill-fated lovers Romeo and Juliet met their tragic end at Shrewsbury's Theatre Severn last night.
The bard's famous tragedy was brought to life in an energetic performance by a cast of young actors from the Icarus Theatre Collective.
What unfolded was the timeless tale of star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet, the children of rival feuding families who meet in secret and fall in love.
Their swift marriage is thrown into turmoil after Romeo murders Juliet's cousin Tibalt in revenge for his killing of Romeo's best friend Mercutio.
With Romeo banished for his crime, Juliet is forced by her parents to consent to marry another man, leading her to take drastic action.
Fate continues to conspire against the couple resulting in their untimely deaths which finally reconciles their warring relatives.
Last night's production was a traditional retelling of the 16th century play delivered in period costume.
Directed by Max Lewendel, it was a very accessible adaption of Shakespeare's play which was appreciated by the youthful audience.
The two leads, Kaiden Dubois and Nicole Anderson, brought a youthful exuberance to the roles of the doomed lovers.
Anderson, in particular, gave a moving and believable performance as Juliet.
They were backed up by an excellent supporting cast, in particular Gemma Barrett as Juliet's bawdy nurse, whose comic turn added a modern touch to the Elizabethan play. David McLaughlin's intelligent performance as Romeo's best friend Mercutio also stood out.
The cast made good use of the simple set design and the sword fight scenes were well acted and choreographed.
For details on the group visit www.icarustheatre.org
Romeo and Juliet is on tonight and tomorrow.
Review by Catherine Ferris
