READING Repertory Theatre is back after its summer hiatus with an exciting revival of a subverted Shakespeare classic.
From Wednesday, October 11, the theatre is showing a revival of Joel Calarco’s refreshing play, Shakespeares R&J, the first in the UK since the play debuted on the West End 20 years ago.
The play sees a queer reliving of the timeless love story in Romeo and Juliet as the play itself is discovered by four young prep school students.
The quartet become swept away by the play as they continue to perform it aloud, with the roles of Romeo and Juliet bringing a new dimension to their relationships as school mates.
Passion takes over, forcing the boys to re-examine their attitude to school, society, and desire.
Elijah Ferriera will return to Reading Rep following appearances in Hedwig and the Angry Inch in Leeds and Manchester, and more recently as Young Scrooge in Beth Flintoff’s A Christmas Carol.
Ferriera is back to undertake the role of Student 1, who largely portrays Romeo within the production.
He is joined by Brayden Emmanuel, whose Student 2 takes on the role of Juliet, following roles in ITV’s You & Me and short film Kweenship, as well as appearing in DNA at the New Wolsley Theatre.
Luke Daniels is also returning to the Rep in the wake of his appearance at the theatre’s production of Youth and the Young Person, as well as in Penetration at The Cockpit Theatre, London.
The cast is rounded out by Tom Sowinski, who recently appeared in the UK and Ireland tour of Cilla – The Musical.
Paul Stacey directs alongside movement director Chris Cuming, designer Anna Kelsey, John Rainsforth as lighting director, Jamie Lu on sound, and Sarah Harkins as casting director.
Director Paul Stacey said: “I can’t wait for audiences to see this epic story of forbidden love turned on its head.
“This modern adaption shakes off the cobwebs many associate with Shakespeare and allows us to see the text anew.
“We are very excited to welcome our talented cast to Reading Rep and it’s a pleasure to have Elijah and Luke back on our main stage.”
Shakespeare’s R&J runs at Reading Repertory Theatre, Kings Road, from Wednesday, October 11, to Saturday, November 4, including relaxed, accessible, and reduced capacity performances.
Full details and access to tickets are available via: readingrep.com/shakespeares-rj
