I have lost count how many times I have seen Romeo and Juliet over the years.  It has to be in the double figures. What I do know is that with every new viewing of the play I fall in love with this masterpiece all over again.

This is just what I did with Bell Shakespeare’s current revival at the Playhouse. The production is Peter Evans first in his new role as the Artistic Director of this wonderful Company, taking over from  the Company’s original director and mastermind, John Bell.

Very big shoes to fill, still Evans does well in his ‘debut’.  I went into this latest ‘incarnation’ with a very clear focus on my view of the world that Shakespeare is bringing us with R and  J and this came across strongly in Evans’ production.

Romeo and Juliet is a mega, mighty cross generational conflict. We see the older generation entrenched in their ways, rigid in their beliefs, attitudes and prejudices. The young  generation are fueled with passion, believe that anything is possible, and don’t have any time for rules, obligations or  for that matter patience.

Evans’ creative team boldly create the ‘physical’ world of his reshaping of the play.  Anna Cordingley’s set and costumes set us in the Renaissance period, Kelly  Ryall’s delicate, foreboding music and Benjamin Cisterne’s atmospheric lighting frame the action well. Through the play Evans employs  a few interesting strategies, with a play within a play device and the the use of large boxed lanterns to add ambience.

The actors in character dive deeply into this world and come up with authentic, rich portrayals. Alex Williams and  Kelly Paterniti impress as the star crossed lovers. In particular I loved Paterniti’s very clear diction and presentation.

Damien Strouthos portrayed a very  feisty, brazen Mercutio, Jacob Warner was the warm hearted Benvolio, Tom Stokes a firebrand Tybalt, Angie Milliken played Juliet’s anguished mum and Justin Stewart Cotta was Juliet’s  proud father. Michelle Doake reveled in playing the ditzy, over-bearing Nurse , Michael Gupta played poor Paris, Hazem Shammas was the ever helpful Friar, and Cramer Cain was the Lord Monatgue. I have mentioned the cast in the primary role, as some actors played multiple characters.

Highly Recommended, Peter Evans production of Romeo and Juliet for Bell Shakespeare is playing the Playhouse at the Sydney Opera House until 27th March and then transfers to Canberra.