An explosive, urgent tale of forbidden love is to be told in a contemporary take on the classic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet.
Nottingham Playhouse, in a co-production with English Touring Theatre, Royal Lyceum Edinburgh, and Leeds Playhouse, is to stage a band-new adaptation of the Shakespearean play — which will arrive at the venue in 2027.
It tells the story of a pair of teenagers who fall madly in love while their families violently tear each other apart — exploring how one wrong decision can change everything.
A contemporary take on Romeo and Juliet is set for the stage at Nottingham Playhouse. Photo: Supplied
Forbidden love, secrets, loyalty, and grief collide, promising violent delights with violent ends.
What do you do when your fate is already sealed, but you’re falling in love for the very first time?
Romeo and Juliet will be directed by Chelsea Walker, winner of the Sir Peter Hall Director Award in 2017, who said: “I am thrilled to join forces with ETT, Nottingham Playhouse, Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh and Leeds Playhouse to direct Romeo and Juliet.
“It’s a play I’ve always wanted to direct, and it feels more urgent and moving now than ever before, in a world where decisions are made in the blink of an eye and people are forced to grow up younger and younger. I can’t wait to bring our visceral, contemporary take to audiences across the UK.”
The production opens in Edinburgh early next year, before embarking on a tour to Leeds Playhouse, Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, and concluding its run from April 20 to May 8, 2027, at Nottingham Playhouse.
Artistic director at Nottingham Playhouse, Adam Penford, said: “We’re excited to work with English Touring Theatre on this new adaptation of Romeo and Juliet.
“The play is one of Shakespeare’s most performed because it’s timeless and universal. Its themes speak both to young people and older generations.
“We look forward to Chelsea’s exciting contemporary vision coming to life.”