Reviving a Classic: “Romeo and Juliet” on Broadway
Who can forget the iconic opening line of “Romeo and Juliet”? “How y’all doin’ today?” Well, perhaps it’s not the most traditional introduction. However, this modern twist was delivered at the start of the play’s 36th Broadway revival, which premiered on Thursday at Circle in the Square. The words resonate with a sense of warmth and accessibility for the youthful audience the production aims to attract, contrasting sharply with the classic iambic pentameter: “Two households, both alike in dignity.”
In director Sam Gold’s innovative rec-room adaptation, the idea of two households is itself reimagined. Romeo’s parental figures, along with several other characters, have been omitted entirely. Juliet’s parents are ingeniously portrayed by a single actor, who switches between roles with just a change in tone. Although Kit Connor and Rachel Zegler, the notable box-office draws, each embody one star-crossed lover—Connor as a wide-eyed Romeo and Zegler as a radiant Juliet—the remaining eight cast members take on a staggering 17 roles, often blurring the lines between characters in an endearing yet chaotic ensemble.
Before you ponder whether this production was crafted from a CliffsNotes guide, with as little poetic depth as an Instagram story, consider that many of the characters are indeed teenagers. This production may serve its best purpose when directed towards those experiencing the story for the first time, rather than the seasoned audience members who have seen it multiple times. Gold has adeptly utilized a diverse range of theatrical tools—scissors, hammers, punches, and wrenches—to captivate young audiences and present a world that resonates more closely with their contemporary lives than with the settings of Elizabethan London or Renaissance Verona.
The performance kicks off with an energetic preshow atmosphere, overflowing with flirtation, bravado, and moments of youthful conflict. The narrative begins with Gabby Beans, who plays the Chorus, casually greeting the audience. Later in the show, Beans transforms into a fiery Mercutio, a supportive Friar Lawrence, and a scarcely present Prince Escalus, embodying a relatable hype woman who introduces her fellow cast members by first name and clarifies their roles. For those who might find themselves perplexed—an understandable plight even for frequent theatergoers—there’s a handy program insert that visualizes the Montagues and Capulets as a colorful mood board.
Feeling the Groove: The vibrant energy is palpable as Gabby Beans, along with Tommy Dorfman, Kit Connor, and other cast members, engage in a lively dance sequence, showcasing the dynamic spirit of Sam Gold’s “Romeo + Juliet” at Circle in the Square.
