SHAKESPEARE’S classic tale of teenage passion, Romeo And Juliet, will be given a new slant in this summer’s Barnard Castle outdoor spectacular by The Castle Players, who are seeking volunteers both on and off-stage.
Romeo and Juliet is the community theatre company’s 25th production, and will again be held in the grounds of The Bowes Museum from July 8-12. The director is Jill Cole, a long-standing member of the group, who has appeared on stage in many previous productions and led the Castle Players’ youth wing, The Turrets, from 1996-2013.
The production will be set against a backdrop of the mods and rockers’ seaside riots of the early 1960s, with the opposing factions representing the rival Houses of the Capulets and Montagues.
“The intensity that surrounded those riots is not very far at all from the high energy of Shakespeare’s play,” explains Cole.While not wishing to give away too many surprises, Cole hinted that the show’s designer, Simon Pell, is currently working out how to create a seaside pier on the museum’s back lawn.
Anyone interested in taking part can find out more at the first production meeting on Monday, at 7.30pm, in The Witham, Barnard Castle.
Although Cole is keen to ensure that the two young lovers are the right “playing age”, she is keen to stress that all age groups are welcome, with plenty to do for anyone wishing to tread the boards. She adds: “We are particularly keen to hear from any young men, aged 16 to 25, wishing to take part.”
Newcomers are welcome. As well as looking for actors, The Players are also seeking anyone wanting to help out with props, costumes, set building and design, sound and lighting, box office and front of house – as well as many administrative and practical roles.
No experience is required and, as Cole points out, it’s a really great way to meet people and make new friends!
For further information check out The Castle Players’ website, castleplayers.co.uk, call Cole on 07802-603008 or just turn up on Monday to meet the group and find how you can be involved.
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