NEW YORK—William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, the tale of the ultimate star-crossed lovers, is currently being given a stellar revival as part of the Public Theater's 2007 "Shakespeare in the Park" series.
In Verona two families, the Montagues and Capulets, have been carrying on an ancient feud. But when young Romeo (Oscar Isaac) a Montague, locks eyes with a Capulet named Juliet (Lauren Ambrose), it's love at first sight for both. However after Romeo kills Tybalt (Brian Tyree Henry) one of Juliet's kinsman (in retaliation for Tybalt killing a friend of Romeo's), he must flee for his life, while Juliet is promised in marriage to another. A plot is hatched by a resourceful and sympathetic friar (Austin Pendleton), to reunite the lovers, but the scheme goes horribly wrong, leading to unspeakable tragedy.
This is a timeless tale, but one so old and familiar that it takes a lot to bring the story to life. Fortunately, this production succeeds on all counts, especially due to the winning performance of both leads. Ambrose perfectly captures the innocence and youth of Juliet as she goes through the rush of emotions which are a part of first love. She can also pass for a 14-year old, the age of the character.
Isaac's Romeo at first glance seems rather dull and listless until it becomes clear this choice is deliberate, as he becomes totally alive when he first sees Juliet. Their scenes together have a wonderful chemistry, freshness, and vitality as they meet in secret, share a first kiss, and pledge their eternal love. (The two also work well in scenes alone.)
Just as important as the casting is Michael Greif's razor-sharp direction, making this three-hour piece seem half that. Under his guidance, the production effortlessly blends elements of drama, poignancy, comedy, and a surprising amount of humor to just the right effect. Special mention must go to fight director Rick Sordelet for making the various actions sequences especially animated and realistic.
The supporting cast is also strong. Christopher Evan Welch is great fun as Romeo's friend Mercutio, delivering much of the humorous (and occasionally raunchy) dialogue of the piece. Just as good is Camryn Manheim as Juliet's nurse; while Pendleton is superb as the friar, helpless to stop the course of events as they unfold before him. Also deserving of mention are George Bartenieff and Michael Cristofer as the patriarchs of the Montague and Capulet clans, as well as Dan Colman as a doomed suitor of Juliet, and Timothy D. Stickney as the Prince of Verona.
The set by Mark Wendland, which includes a pool and large bridge (the latter which revolves as needed) is quite good, and costumes by Emilio Sosa work nicely.
Also in the cast are Saidah Arrika Ekulona, Owiso Odera, Opal Alladin, Ari Brand, Anthony Carrigan, Tiffany Danielle, Seth Duerr, Quincy Dunn-Baker, Christian Felix, Susan Hyon, Alexander Lane, Orville Mendoza, Jeffrey Omura, Lucas Papelias, Alex Podulke, Mary Rasmussen, Cornelius Smith, Jr., and Alexander Sovronsky.
Romeo & Juliet
Presented by the Public Theater
Delacorte Theatre in Central Park
Central Park and 81st Street
Tickets: Free
Information: 212-539-8750 or http://www.publictheater.org
Closes: July 8
Judd Hollander is the New York correspondent for the London publication The Stage.
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