Written and directed by established actor, playwright and UK reggae royalty Lorna Gayle – Romeo & Juliet (The Remix) gives a fresh take on the most famous love story of all time, says Nadine White
Lorna took a traditional Shakespearean tragedy and completely turned it on its head, prising out the golden essentials that make for a great production. The incorporation of colloquialism and Jamaican patois in the dialogue made the play’s message all the more effective.
The use of complex hip hop dance routines was simply captivating, courtesy of choreographer Nadine Woodley and Tolu Adefioye. The stand off between suave ‘Paris’ (brilliantly acted by Aaron Deacon) and ‘Romeo’ (Kassidy Chaplin). A priceless moment was when ‘Romeo’ draws for his microphone and slays his alleged love-rival with the sharp edge of his tongue. Some fundamental principles were addressed throughout the play, such as the power of the tongue as well as the power of love.
Not to forget…the comical narrative interjections by Kareem Burrell were world class! This gentleman was awesomely entertaining with his hilarious interpretations of the play’s unfolding events. His direct addresses to the audience kept everyone on the edge of their chairs!
“Labrish ah gwahn! See an’ blind, hear an’ deaf!” he muttered – ah, that old Jamaican saying.
The play featured a wonderful array of young actors, each dazzling in their element. Renowned songstress, Angela Ricci, was recently one of the featured singers at Playvybz’ Oxjam event at Music Bar. Angela gave an outstanding performance as ‘Juliet’, emitting purity and grace – I loved the contrast with her sister ‘Sam’ played by Dominique Davis, who was as ‘street’ as they come!
The play disproved a lot of stereotypes about young people today, ’Romeo’ was convincing and powerful in portraying a young man in love with a girl – not a hint of macho-ness or denial in sight! This illustrated how love is unyielding, without pretence and not exclusive to older people…Us young’uns know a little somethin’ about love too!
Even though the play is a conventional tragedy , it was good to see that the play wasn’t even remotely tragic. In fact, towards the end of the play (where the resolution is usually the death of both protagonists), I was delighted that it was a Fox that got run over and not ‘Romeo’ – a ‘laugh out loud/’phew!’ moment for everyone.
It is my hope that this play will start circulating around other theatres so that more people can come and see this uplifting, fresh and infectious work of art. Well done, you all did South London proud! #teamGUP
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