A Liverpool Romeo and Juliet that isn’t Rubbish Shakespeare
THE classic tragedy of Romeo and Juliet as told by "four highly-strung, bickering idiots" returns to Liverpool next week, after success at last year's Edinburgh Fringe.
Rubbish Shakespeare Company's version is made for all ages and is full of slapstick humour. "Sausage rolls fly, shoes become weaponised and even Prince William pops in for a dance, as all the while it builds to an action-packed finale that’s heavy on mess and may contain a bit of kissing," they say.
"We can’t wait to bring it home during our national tour," explains artistic director Lee Hithersay, who readers of this blog will know from his work with sketch comics Legion of Doom and his one-man spin off, Terry Arlarse. He also plays Juliet, natch. "We can’t wait to show it off in our backyard. Hope Street is where the show was developed thanks to the artistic support of the Everyman and Playhouse, so it’s fitting that it’s being revived across the road. Little does the Hope Street Theatre know, they’ve booked a load of “rubbish”."
And that name?
"Most of us are introduced to Shakespeare behind a school desk - which can drain the plays of their purpose, their energy, and most importantly, their fun," says Lee. "That’s why we set out to make big, silly, interactive versions of these plays. We want to show that Shakespeare is not, in fact, Rubbish!
"Now pass me my wig, it’s time I did my bit for the cause.."
Catch Romeo and Juliet at Hope Street Theatre this Sunday (March 17) at 1.30pm. The family-friendly show is an hour straight through, and suitable for audiences aged 4+. Tickets are available here.
