Luton Sixth Form College’s state-of-the-art Eastside Theatre was filled to capacity with an audience watching this well known tragic romance unfold. Romeo and Juliet was written early in the career of playwright William Shakespeare about two young “star-crossed lovers” whose deaths ultimately unite their feuding families. It is among Shakespeare’s most popular archetypal stories of young, teenage love. The play was brought into the 21st century by students from the Drama, Music and Media Department with contemporary twists in the plot, while impressively still being in touch with William Shakespeare’s original concept. Complemented by a 90’s style Hip-Hop beat, the audience watched in admiration as the students executed the dance routine with grace and an enviable rhythm. The lead characters were played by Elijah Batunde and Nadine Turk, who both shone in their respective roles.
The Eastside Theatre company’s interpretation and adaption of Romeo and Juliet carries a poignant and serious message. “Romeo and Juliet is as much about gang rivalry and knife crime as it is about two star-crossed lovers. The ending, although shocking, brings hope to the otherwise hard-hitting tragedy” said Creative Director, Steve Crayon.