A hearty welcome to the Sydney Classic Theatre Company, the latest addition to Sydney’s vibrant and diverse theatre scene.
Their aim is to present classic plays to contemporary audiences and capture the heart of these texts.
For their premiere production they have chosen Shakespeare’s ROMEO AND JULIET with the venue being the intimate Fusebox Theatre at the multi-platformed Factory space.
Angela Blake directed a largish cast to bring this classic tale to life. Thankfully no actor was required to double-up.
It’s a very difficult task to present such a grand tale on the tiny Fusebox stage along with the very limited technical facilities available. Well…one has to start somewhere…
There was nothing exceptional about this inaugural production. Essentially Blake’s production was conventional and middle of the road. Understandable really. This play carries itself very well without needing any flourishes.
The staging was a little clunky/busy with too much time being spent in between scenes adjusting the ‘furniture’. The actors timing in some scenes was a little out. As much as I tried, I couldn’t decipher a clear vision to the set design.
The famous climatic scenes were a little rushed. I liked the director’s final touch which sees the warring father’s hug after they have tragically lost their beloved children.
The soundscape used through the play with deft use of piano worked well.
In terms of performances, my pick was Henrietta Tkalec who was a really good, fiery Mercutio.
Jessica Lowe and Isaac Reefman impressed as the star crossed lovers. Steve Maresca made for a noble and proud Prince. Luke Holmes impressed as the good-spirited Friar Lawrence whose clever plan comes undone.
All in all, a noble first effort by the producer Demitra Alexandria and the Sydney Classic Theatre Company. ROMEO AND JULIET is playing at the Fusebox theatre at the Factory Space until this Friday 5th June. The final performances are this Thursday at 7.30pm and Friday at 6.20pm.
