Star-crossed lovers take the stage for Shakespeare in the Park
Moncton, N.B. - In its annual salute to the Bard, Hubcity Theatre returns to Centennial Park this summer with Romeo & Juliet.
The play, about a romance between two youths from feuding families, was among William Shakespeare's most popular plays during his lifetime and remains one of his most frequently performed plays.
“We wanted to give people a show audiences love that takes them through a gamut of emotions from start to finish,” says artistic director JB Vanier who is co-directing the show with Kelly Tynan. “Many people have read the play in high school and there have been several movie adaptations, so there is a lot of familiarity with the story. It really is a timeless classic, at the same time being a story people constantly draw new inspiration from, such as the film Rosaline and the Broadway show & Juliet.”
The cast of 26 local performers includes a mix of new and familiar faces to Shakespeare in the Park. The titular characters are played by Lex Deighton and Rory Smith, respectively. Their feuding parents are played by Georgia Ross, Melanie Mealey and Gigi Inara. Jill Quiring takes on the role of Juliet’s nurse.
The annual event from the local theatre company will take place over two weekends – Fri. July 21 to Sun. July 23 and Thurs. July 27 to Sat. July 29. The performance will begin at 7 p.m. (the audience can arrive starting at 6:30). The performance will last about 2 hours and there is a 15-minute intermission.
This year’s performance can be found in the lower section of Centennial Park. From the parking lot near the playground and splash park, audience members will take the stairs or path down the hill. From there it is a short walk to the performance area. Concessions will be available.
It is recommended that audience members bring a chair and come prepared for the evening’s weather forecast - sunscreen, sunglasses and insect repellant are advised.
This event is open to everyone with a suggested donation of $20. For $25 “Sweet Seats” can be reserved in advance, this guarantees a spot among the best seats in the house with a chair, drink and snack provided.
Performances generally go on rain or shine if it is safe for the audience and cast members. Any weather-related updates will be posted on Hubcity Theatre’s Facebook page.
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For interviews or more information email: info@hubcitytheatre.com
Rehearsal photos can be found here.