Romeo and Juliet Takes a Bow
“For never was a story of more woe, Than this of Juliet and her Romeo.” While the story itself was full of woe, Shakespeare on the Rocks’ debut performance was met with applause and cheers, laughs and tears, from August 21-24.
The Beach 94th Amphitheater was packed from Thursday to Sunday as viewers brought beach chairs to catch all the action from the sword fights, the romance, the dance parties to the murders and mayhem. The production was co-produced and directed by Rob Bryn and Elwin Cuevas.
Local characters like Owen, the Best Dressed Man in Rockaway, to car salesman Jerry Rea and drag performer Ginger Ladd, brought glee to audiences as they recognized the familiar faces. And talent abound from young actors Ellington-Blue Chapman, as Romeo and Jeneice Brown, as Juliet, and those who poured their souls into their roles like Catherine Yaeger as Nurse, Lauren Harrison as Benvolio and Balthazar, Myles Rich as Mercutio and Seamus O’Sullivan as Tybalt, plus a host of supporting characters who brought the show to life.
Shakespeare on the Rocks is just getting started as the hope is to bring another show next summer, and they may even have some treats in store for the winter. To follow along, check out www.shakespeareontherocks.org and follow @shakespeare_on_the_rocks on Instagram for updates.
