Romeo & Juliet

The Most Excellent and Lamentable Tragedy of ROMEO and JULIET
Shakespeare's eternal romantic tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, returns to the stage with Riccarton Players' uniquely blended fusion of classic and contemporary performance styles—an experience unlike any other! Our cast, featuring some of Greater Christchurch’s finest talent, pours heart, soul, and passion into this new interpretation of one of history’s most renowned plays.

Originally staged at London’s Globe Theatre circa 1595, Romeo and Juliet has seen countless adaptations. While it is popularly believed that Queen Elizabeth I attended a performance, she certainly supported Shakespeare and other playwrights as a patron of the arts; Queen Elizabeth II, on the other hand, saw various productions herself. Over the past decade, the play has been performed in more than 24 countries, translated into over 100 languages, and reinvented in formats ranging from drama and musicals to ballet, film, and even modern reimagining’s like West Side Story and The Lion King.

Our ensemble is led by Makayla Hulme (Juliet) and James R. Howey (Romeo), both seasoned performers, whose infectious chemistry is well backed by a dynamic company whose energy elevates every role, including Mercutio, Nurse, Lords and Ladies Montague and Capulet, Prince Escalus, Benvolio, Friar Lawrence, and many others who contribute significantly.

Expect side-splitting mirth during the show’s first half, followed by gripping tension and heartfelt sorrow in the tragedy that unfolds later. Guided by Alistair Bean—whose creative vision shaped productions such as “Dracula” and “The Crucible,” and who brings decades of theatre experience is well supported by our Sword masters, Choreographers, intimacy coordinator and extremely talented stage crew. The excellence of Riccarton Players production team aims to deliver a performance that will leave a lasting impression long after the curtain falls…

Riccarton Players proudly brings you affordable Community Theatre for all the family to enjoy.