Seeing Romeo and Juliet at the Globe was something I was very excited about, but it wasn’t something that I thought would stand out in the trip the way that it did. In fact, as soon as the show began, I could tell this would be one of the best shows we saw on the trip.
The Globe is this pillar of history in London – something that almost everyone recognizes and dreams of visiting, and theater major or not, most most people can appreciate the beautiful development of theater that occurred in the original Globe Theater. I was sad to discover that after believing for 20 years that this Globe was the one that had been built in the time of Shakespeare, that it actually is a replica built in 1997. I was slightly disappointed, but that was short lived and didn’t affect the quality of the show at all.
The theater is absolutely beautiful and truly feels like youre stepping into a time capsule. The open roof is the perfect touch and the wooden benches and stage add to the charm. I loved thinking about what this place would have looked like back in Shakespeares time – the gorgeous Elizabethan era dresses, the language, but I was also thinking about how bad it must have smelled in there. Thats just where my mind goes I guess! We did have seats on our tickets, but a small group of us decided to brave the yard and stand for the 3 hour show. I did not regret it one bit. Standing 2 feet away from the stage was such a unique experience and truly made me feel immersed in the show. There was not a single moment that I felt bored or ready for the show to end – I was 100% engaged and cared about every single character. I have been reading this story for over 10 years, and honestly, seeing it at the Globe was the first time I really understood it. For so many years there were plot holes and missing pieces in my mind, but on Friday, it all came together for me. I finally understood the rivalry, the family tree, the “death” of Juliet and the death of Juliet, and also the horrible death of Romeo. I never quite got these things before, and I felt like the whole time I was saying “Oooooohhhhhh” in my head as I finally understood the full plot!
The actors were unbelievable, and the wild west setting was so quirky and perfect. The costumes, first of all, were so beautiful. I was jealous, I wanted to wear them!! But Juliet and Momma Capulet’s costumes were the best of all for sure. They were divine. Now lets talk chemistry. I dont know what was happening on that stage but it was electric. I dont think I’ve ever seen such good on stage chemistry between two love interests as I saw here. Romeo + Juliet so believable I was genuinely curious if they were dating in real life. (they are not.) But it was gorgeous acting. I actually think that part of the reason why I understood so much more of the show was due to the girl who played Juliet being such a smart actor. She really made me believe that she was 14 years old. Her mannerisms and her speaking pattern and her implications werent stiff like some people interpret Shakespeare to be – they were vibrant and honest and genuine. She brought so much life to this character – to the point where I dont see Juliet as only this dramatic character, I see her as more of a comedic one. She was brilliant. Same with Romeo – he was so truthful and each time he left the stage we were waiting for him to come back, because his work was just that good. 5 stars to all of them. This wild west theme worked perfectly and added some super fun elements to the show, like line dancing and music and cowboy boots and guns – it was so much fun. I think the also did an incredible job with having the wild west theme and costumes and setting, but keeping the completely original Shakespeare words, even in their own English accents. They were all so witty and smart and wonderful.
If you go to the Globe, take about 3 Advils and STANDDD BABY STANDDD!!!!!
xo, jo
Theatre in London U of A 