The Little Theatre Workshop of Perkasie’s Romeo & Juliet leaves audiences with stars in their Eyes, through August 2.
Set among the blooms of the historic Pearl S. Buck House, a young love blossoms in fair Verona. The tragic tale of love and loss follows themes of divisive polarity fueled by hate and fear evolving to compassion and community.
This duality is also reflected in the modern costume selections and the incorporation of contemporary slang juxtaposed with old prose and traditional roles.
While the first acts are punctuated with unexpected chuckles, stints of physical comedy, and a few hearty belly laughs, the final acts turn brooding and malevolent.
The audience experiences the slow slip into these dark and dangerous acts of rage and violence as the sun also falls beneath the horizon in the outdoor theatre.
As the light and the mood sink incessantly lower, the audience is instructed to rouse their mobile phone flashlights engulfing the cast in a sea of stars.
This unexpected, powerful moment coincides with the discovery of the melancholy fate of our star-crossed lovers.
As Juliet, Alyssa Capel’s sweet, captivating spirit charms even the most melancholy of Romeos played by Shawn McCoy. Their chemistry is potent and tangible.
Jared Meier’s interpretation of Mercutio soars over the top in expression and physicality. The interplay between him and the boisterous Benvolio is top entertainment. As Benvolio, Sarah Wright’s physical comedy and perfectly timed expressions match the quips she injects into this gender-bending role.
Jaeden Reppert’s portrayal of the good Friar Lawrence demonstrates both compassion and a secretive nature borne from the trust of the community. The lovable yet flawed friar is played with spirit.
Bounding between the Friar’s ankles you find young Renea Yerger as Samson; a stark size contrast leans well into this gregarious character.
The feuding Lords Capulet and Montague, played by John Hanna and Andrew Clark, ground the performance in family loyalty and societal demands. Only after great devastation can they find common ground.
As Lady Capulet, Heather Kulik navigates a heavily emotional role well while commanding the stage.
Barbara Lammert portrays the nurse to Juliet and drives many of the plot transitions smoothly. Her secret messaging appears even more stealthy as she weaves through the garden corridors.
Landon DeGroote brings the drama to his portrayal of Tybalt. His Lost Boys stylings and brash attitude bring a nostalgic and dynamic element.
Ben Gossard brings a short yet impactful portrayal of Count Paris with a breath of emotion from contented love to despair.
Prince Escalus, played by Tom Blair, provides eloquent dialogue which drives the story from start to finish.
Director Emilie Gubler has successfully elicited a strong desire for patience, understanding, and compassion triumphing above immeasurable odds through the tale of the lovers Romeo and Juliet. Only through their sacrifices did true peace prevail.
Arrive early for a garden stroll and be sure to catch these limited performances on August 1 at 2.
Performances are at 2 pm and 7 pm on Saturday and a matinee only at 2 pm on Sunday. Tickets are $10.