What I liked
The actors are well-versed in Shakespeare and do an incredible job embodying the classic characters, with empathy and care. The show is a clear labor of love, and it was gorgeous. From the here-and-queer Montacrew to the covert intensity of the Capulet family, these actors understand their characters inside and out and bring them to life with charm and honesty. One of the best things a showing of Romeo and Juliet can do is convince me that its leads are right, and that there is truly no other choice than to act in desperation. This show had me following its leads all the way into the Capulet tomb.
It was also gorgeous, visually and acoustically, and even had an original folk song, courtesy of Friar Laurence on guitar.
Romeo Maybrier, as a director, knows their Shakespeare, and knows what makes a good adaptation. There were so many touches to bring it into the present day, Venice Beach-inspired Verona setting. From Nurse Angelica and Lady Capulet’s bilingual conversations, to Romeo’s gender expression through language (a girl, a woman, and Juliet’s husband), the adaptation loves marrying source material to the modern day, in a way that continues to work, even when the show moves between comedy and tragedy with astonishing pace.
What I didn't like
I have no substantial critiques. The show was incredible. My only wish is that the last showings weren’t so late at night because I want to see it again.
My overall impression
Gorgeous, devastating, heartfelt…a tribute to queer joy and queer grief. R+J at the Zephyr was a must-see, and a show I wish I could watch again and again. Shakespeare is perfectly at home in the modern setting, without being forced or cliched; the script editing is tight and clean, relevant, and easy to follow. Don’t miss out on this treat! Let yourself fall in love with R+J this June.
