Romeo and Juliet - Leicester Square Theatre
Preview by Lizzie Guilfoyle
RUBY IN the Dust is presenting their new adaption of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet at Leicester Square Theatre (Basement) – from June 4 (previews from June 1) to July 11, 2010.
Set against the contemporary backdrop of Mussolini’s Italy, family rivalry is played out against Mussolini’s oppressive regime.
Count Capulet is portrayed as a militant member of Mussolini’s secret police, whilst Friar Lawrence exemplifies the many priests who opened their doors to Jewish refugees at the time.
Linnie Reedman directs a cast headed by Spotlight Best Actress Nominee 2010 Olivia Vinall (Juliet) and Daniel Finn (Romeo), who made his West End debut at the Leicester Square Theatre in the critically acclaimed Blowing Whistles. They are joined by Martin Dickinson, Chris Gee, David Laughton, Christos Lawton, Dan Moore and Imogen Vinden-North.
Ruby in the Dust’s previous work includes Miracle starring Susannah York and The Extraordinary Cabaret of Dorian Gray. Founded by Young Vic genesis director Linnie Reedman and acclaimed composer and musical director Joe Evans, the company specialise in updating timeless stories with an unusual twist, which they strive to enhance with vivid visual images, movement and original music.
Also a classically-trained actress with numerous theatre credits, Reedman has worked alongside directors such as Alan Rickman (The Winter’s Guest) and Tim Supple (Spring Awakening).
With music by Joe Evans, Romeo and Juliet is designed by Christopher James Hone, with lighting by Seth Rook Williams, choreography by Luisa Hinchliff, fight direction by Jessica Hrabowsky and musical direction by Kate Marlais.
Tickets: £15 – £20 – available from the box office on 0844 847 2475 or at www.leicestersquaretheatre.com
Times: Tuesday to Saturday at 7pm (doors open 6.30pm), Wednesday and Sunday at 3pm (doors open at 2.30pm).