The theatrical production of Romeo and Juliet at Globe Theater 2019 is a contemporary example of postmodern art. The proof of this statement is the mixture of styles shown to the audience. The modern theater is increasingly striving for experiments, and individual interpretations of certain directors are often expressed in non-standard staging. This show is a new look at a classical play; however, it is impossible to give this act an unambiguously positive or negative assessment. The first aspect that one can pay attention to is the format of the stage, made in the form of an amphitheater, in the conditions of which you can watch the performance from almost any point. Thus, as it were, the author invites the viewer into the format of a traditional theater, in which content and essence are more important than external surroundings. References to tradition and the past are standard in contemporary art, which includes more than theater. However, along with this, modern decor elements are noticeable on the stage, for example, the inscription “Juliet”, made of flowers, around which part of the performance takes place.
Moreover, design kitsch is immediately noticeable in the version, implying a mixture of visual images from different times. The act is performed against the backdrop of somewhat familiar scenery for a classical play: columns are visible, small balconies with carved railings. At the same time, the heroes of the playwear are modern costumes typical of today’s times. The script of the production, like all other elements of the performance, has also changed. The main plot has remained the same – all that Shakespeare’s tragedy about two lovers is played out on the stage (Romeo and Juliet, 2020). The actors onstage recite rhymed lines from the original literary work.
Nevertheless, the play is perceived differently due to the more daring and uninhibited presentation of the performance participants. In terms of acting, the cast members also work in a contemporary style. Interpreting the original text, adding new topical lines, and periodically addressing the audience directly are characteristic features of modern theater. A relaxed manner of dialogue certainly reduces the level of drama, which allows for a better message of Shakespeare’s original work to the public. Any form and manifestation of art are subjective; accordingly, it is difficult to give an objective assessment of the success of this approach to staging.
On the one hand, the modern presentation of classical material allows more people to better understand Shakespeare’s work and touch the theatrical art. Significantly, this trend is most relevant for young viewers who are just starting to get acquainted with the world of literature and theater. On the other hand, a modern adaptation of a classic work, especially with active use of humor in dialogues and scenes, reduces the level of drama inherent in the original work. To some people, this may sound familiar to classical art. Creative activity, which appeared in ancient times, has developed and evolved throughout its existence.
Accordingly, it seems to me that the modern interpretation of the classic play Romeo and Juliet is a natural continuation of artistic and dramatic traditions. The ability to adapt the plot to the realities of the modern world allows young viewers and experienced theatergoers to appreciate Shakespeare’s work by looking at the play from a different angle. In general, I can characterize my attitude to this experiment as positive, except for one point. I would not say I liked the acting, which seemed unnatural to me. Given the experimental nature of the performance, the primary method of transmitting information is precisely how the roles are played. However, the acting work seemed unconvincing to me, which certainly leaves a negative aftertaste.
Separately, it is worth noting the end of the performance, during which the actors, instead of the usual appearance on the stage and a massive bow, began to dance. On the one hand, this is a rather bold move by the director of the play; the viewer will surely remember such an ending of the performance. On the other hand, the playful end of the play interferes with the performance’s perception. Romeo and Juliet are, first of all, a tragedy about the love of two young people and their inability to be together due to the opposition of their families. The death of the main characters is the denouement of the whole plot, and when the lively dances begin immediately after this moment, a vague impression arises. In any case, such a move is inherent in the traditions of postmodernism, which presupposes an ironic and sarcastic attitude of people of art even to their work.
To sum up, the piece Romeo and Juliet at Globe Theater’s 2019 is a daring experiment in the art of theater. The use of seemingly incompatible external elements of the presentation adds more energy to the performance. Nevertheless, in some places, the play looks unconvincing, and some aspects of it feel unnatural. When viewed, it feels like some elements were introduced solely to impress the audience and not to increase the production’s depth. However, this format may seem attractive to young viewers who are just starting to get acquainted with the world of theater.
Reference
“Romeo and Juliet (2019) for Free | Playing Shakespeare with Deutsche Bank”. YouTube, 2020. Web.