The new play by Rachel Garnet Starcrossed, brought to the stage by director Philip Wilson, is a retelling of the well-known story of Romeo and Juliet with a focus on two completely overlooked characters. Mercutio and Tybalt, so close to the main characters yet so little studied, take the lead in this new tale of forbidden love.
The plot explores how two men, kept apart by a long-standing hatred between Montecchi and Capuleti, suddenly discover their mutual attraction and explore what their passion may bring: a joyous yet fleeting moment together now, or a complicated and turbulent future. To be together or fight their feelings, is not the only internal conflict explored by the author. The play also explores the complex relationship between our duty and our desires, and our need to fit in while staying true to ourselves.
Garnet’s writing imitates the poetical style of the original play by William Shakespeare but allows characters to speak more directly and casually in the key scenes. While it may be a nice nod to the original piece, many metaphors and phrases feel tired, and the monologues on love start to sound like a choir of clichés.
While not intended as moral teaching, the play clearly preserves the tone of the original, thus clearly showing us in every moment who is right and who is wrong; which side we need to choose, and whose soul to mourn, it’s an interesting choice for a play that raises so many current topics.
The dichotomy continues in the performance; Tommy Sim’aan (Tybalt) and Gethin Alderman (The Player) follow traditional Shakespeare, while Connor Delves (Mercutio) has a more modern and dynamic approach, creating a real sense of chemistry on stage.
The set and costumes are minimal, yet very thought-through. Every detail is in place, and the work of the sound (Harry Blake) and lighting (Simisola Majekodunmi) designers helps us to imagine new places the characters visit. Echo in the church scene or bird songs in the opening of the second act are great examples of simple sounds that help to transform the space.
Overall, it is definitely an enjoyable show with great interludes from The Player, passing jokes and some thought-provoking ideas. If you love classics and enjoy seeing the greatest hits reimagined, then Starcrossed is one for you.
Starcrossed is at Wilton’s Music Hall until 25th June 2022.
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