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If you think you know the story of Romeo and Juliet, prepare to have your expectations well and truly challenged by this new production at the New Vic Theatre. Created in association with Not Too Tame, this modern take gives Shakespeare’s classic tragedy a distinctly northern makeover, bringing the story firmly into 2026 while keeping true to the original story of star crossed lovers and family feuds.
In this unconventional retelling, Romeo is a scaffolder who falls for Juliet, the daughter of a wealthy property developer, with both characters in their 40s as opposed to teenagers. Even still, it remains a story of two people from opposing worlds falling in love.
Natalie Casey of Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps fame, portrays Juliet, meanwhile, the biggest curveball is perhaps Russell Kane as Romeo. Having gone viral recently for his uncanny impression of Prime Minister Andy Burnham, it’s quite the change of pace to his usual camp comedy. But you’d barely recognise the same man once he steps into the role of the lovestruck Romeo.
Throughout the three-hour production, there are some hilarious moments – particularly from Andrew Butler’s Peter, whose fourth-wall-breaking moments were among the highlights – while Russell Kane, Ray Sesay’s Mercutio and Kieran Foster’s Benvolio’s rendition of Shaggy earned plenty of giggles from the auditorium, too. And while there are plenty of laughs, this production never feels like it’s making a mockery of the original.
The production manages to retain enough of the archaic Shakespearean language to make it recognisable, while updating the story and characters enough that it feels accessible for avid thespians and casual theatre-goers alike. The cast is small but mighty, with Patrick Knowles doubling up as Friar and Tybalt, while David Nellist effortlessly flits between Montague and Juliet’s betrothed, Paris. Meanwhile, Louise Haggerty brings plenty of compassion and comedy to Nurse, a real juxtaposition to Lizzie Hopley’s Capulet, whose character is every bit insufferable as she should be.
The first act is energetic, funny and at times completely mad, but it’s in the second half that the production really got me. Because underneath all the modernisation and comedy, this is still Romeo and Juliet. It’s still a story about love, loss, grief, manipulation and class. And by the time we found ourselves in the final scene, someone must have started chopping onions somewhere.
There’s something almost Wuthering Heights-esque about this version too – if you enjoyed the recent Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi movie, I think there’s a good chance this version of Romeo and Juliet will be right up your street.
It’s Shakespeare, but it doesn’t feel stuffy. It’s funny and modern without completely abandoning the essence of the original, and energetic enough to make the rather lengthy production fresh and engaging.
Romeo & Juliet is at the New Vic Theatre until Saturday, October 10.
