Skinny jeans, Doc Martins, and tight trendy button-downs gallivanted across the stage to the tune of Shakespeare’s original “Rome and Juliet” in Franklin High School’s Intimate black-box performance. The classic story of forbidden love, family rivalry, and tragedy received a refreshing face lift with this modern interpretation.

Set in Verona Italy, this time-honored piece first notably preformed in 1662, illustrates a violent feud between the Capulet and Montague households during which their children Romeo and Juliet are led by fate to meet and fall into a forbidden infatuation. The play follows their tragic story and crusade for love.

The cast had great energy and were able to draw the crowd into each scene. The use of the fates and ensemble to move set pieces and their constant presence helped to portray the theme that each event was led by fate. The fight scenes between the two families were high energy especially in a black box setting. “Rome and Juliet” is a challenging production due to the complex Shakespearean monologues but the actors stepped up to the role with only slight losses in Articulation. These losses were made up for by their expressions and in depth characters.

Dylan Saintcross played a charming Romeo and really brought life to the second act with his passionate and intense acting. Miranda Morris as the lovely and even sarcastic Juliet brought a relatable and realistic Juliet to the stage. Morris’ character was surprisingly humorous but still fierce and steady when need be. Both characters meshed well together creating a powerful duo.

Mecutio, Romeo’s ludicrous right hand man played by Jacob Sanchez stole the show. His glittering personality (and costume) brought smiles to the audience even during his death, and provided just enough humor to balance out the tragic theme. Sanchez’s stage presence captivated the audience along with is eccentric body language. Maya Williams as the nurse also created a lot of depth with her character by playing not only a humorous role with her witty comments but also balanced out Juliet’s more eccentric scenes with a guiding voice.

Rosie Henderson and Maya Williams’ “just stepped out of urban outfitters” looks combined with Daniel Warfield’s modern minimalist set provided the production with a beautiful backing. The most noteworthy and creative aspects were the color coordinated costumes and lights used to represent the Red Montague’s and the Blue Capulet’s. Splashes of purple in both Rome and Juliet’s costumes showed their fated connection along with the use of purple lighting during more romantic or passionate scenes. The lighting team led by Light Designers; Noah Heilveil and Jacob Unger set the mood in every scene with well executed displays complimenting the nearly flawless scene transitions led by stage manager and music composer Erin Heilveil.

Overall Franklin High School’s performance was an entrancing and creative take on a timeless classic, and portrayed the effect of fate and personal choice on the outcomes of Life.

by Cassie Kansak of Dulaney