Romeo and Juliet

My first visit to Kirkham Grammar Senior School to see their performance of “Romeo and Juliet” was accompanied by strong winds more suited to “The Tempest” but that did nothing to spoil my enjoyment of this classic piece. Director, Jane Barrie had decided to play most of this production in the round which was a great success. The students are very lucky to have such wonderful facilities at their disposal. The opening scene between the Montagues and Capulets was outstanding, their energy and obvious enthusiasm set the mark for the remainder of the night. Entrances and exits throughout were slick and helped the piece to flow at just the right pace. There were many fine performances marred only slightly by the lack of volume from some of the principals. Projection and diction are so important in any theatrical production and although I dislike the use of amplification it may have been useful at times tonight. The beautiful relationship between the star crossed lovers was apparent from the start and it would seem it must have been a simple task to choose these two young actors who looked so good together. Josh Burrows as Romeo and Sophie Coplestone as Juliet were simply two young people in love, not an easy thing to portray in front of an audience.  Sophie Warden as Tybalt and George Shuttleworth- Brown as Mercutio were outstanding. Great characterisation and excellent diction.  I will look for their names in the professional ranks in the future if that is the route they decide to take. Musicians, backstage crew and lighting helped to ensure a very successful evening. Although I am a traditionalist as far as William Shakespeare is concerned this production in modern costume certainly did not offend and indeed was a refreshing change. Jane Barrie has ensured that all principals understood what was required of  the roles and she must have been very proud of the end result. Congratulation to all involved. I look forward to my next visit. Thank you for making my wife and myself so welcome.

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