Shakespeare's R&J @ Sage Theatre & Shakespeare Co

Joe Calarco’s work unfortunately still retains relevance 28 years later here in Alberta as we tackle both homophobia and the removal of literature from libraries across the province. The work the Javier Vilalta has done throughout the physicality of the performance along with the heavy Catholic themes work well in support of the text. Javier delivers this performance in 3/4 thrust. Jake Rose’s stage build which includes a 15 foot illuminated cross imposing over the actors for the majority of the scenes adds a weight that the actors can never escape from their own guilt. There is also a clear contrast with the simplicity of the wooden stage with inlaid crucifixes on each corner that have LED scripts.

The lighting offers Tauran a lot to play with as there is a heavy haze throughout the majority of the play, as such we get some quite dramatic angled lighting delivered across the stage and by the actors in the form of flashlights.

Joel David Taylor delivered a focused performance with the emotional gravitas needed for a young Romeo who is discovering his sexuality needed for the role. Brett Dahl’s dance and physical take on Juliet was captivating to watch them come in and out of. The ending scene where Brett’s Student 2 refused to leave the Catholic school lineup to join his love was particularly well-done. Bernardo Pacheco Sosa was such a strong Student 3, carrying many of the supporting roles within the show, and differentiating his characters with clarity. Jamie Cesar stole the show though with the role of the Nurse, as is often the case, delivering hilarity in one scene, and immense grief the next.

Overall this adaptation was well done and offered an interesting take on Shakespeare’s beloved classic.