Every year, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe grows bigger and bigger. There are currently 3,795 different productions shows available to book on the Edinburgh Fringe app, and many more as part of Free Fringe. With this in mind, many people want to think outside of the box and see something a bit different from the Fringe staples of stand up comedy and improvised musicals. This morning, I took a chance on a show outside of my personal theatre-going repertoire, an early morning performance of Juliet and Romeo.
Juliet and Romeo is a 1999 inspired adaptation of Romeo and Juliet by the Edinburgh Youth Theatre. This 50-minute-long show is performed by a cast ranging from 11 to 15 years old. This is a summer school production, with the company having around two weeks to learn the entire show. I tend not to see much in the way of children’s theatre, but I took a chance on this- and I’m so glad I did.
From the outset, I was immediately taken aback by how skilfully these young teenagers were handling the Shakespearean dialogue- there was no modernising the script. The cast delivered their lines with the same confidence and conviction of trained actors twice their age. Their enunciation and stage presence was excellent, and can tell that everyone has taken the time to delve into their characters and fully understand their lines- well done!
In amongst the iconic Shakespeare dialogue, the show has interspersed numerous 90s dance numbers. These were performed joyously and enthusiastically by a large ensemble. Songs featured include The Cardigans’ “Lovefool”; Basement Jaxx’s “Red Alert” and Donna Lewis’ “I Love You Always Forever”. I could not believe the enthusiasm and energy of the company, especially given how early in the day it was! Some would draw similarities to the West End and Broadway musical &Juliet, and these comparisons are well-deserved, as both shows are so much fun. The sets and costumes were quite extensive given that this is such a short run, and really added to the 90s vibes.
Juliet and Romeo is a vibrant and imaginative show, performed by a delightful cast of young local talent. If you’re looking for a fun way to start your Fringe day on a high, I cannot recommend this production enough.
Juliet and Romeo runs from 10:30-11:20am at theSpaceTriplex – Big until August 12th.
★ ★ ★ ★