Romeo and Juliet at Sydney Opera House

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Romeo and Juliet, one of William Shakespeare's most popular plays, is returning to the Sydney Opera House from Saturday, 20 February for performances throughout March.



This romantic tragedy, dramatised in over 20 films, ballets and operas is part of popular culture after Baz Luhrmann's box office hit premiered in 1996, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claine Danes in the title roles. This play, at 2 hours and 40 minutes, gives you an interval to interval to catch your breath and ease your beating heart.



The emotional plot highlights the drama of young love, forbidden by rivalling families. As the two lovers fight for their true feelings, they are torn apart by a twisted, petty world determined to poison their joy. As tensions amongst both families reach vicious levels, the couple's resolve is tested until they make an ultimate, enduring sacrifice, at once costing them greatly but also binding their love in a way that could never be broken.

A romance which virtually created the genre and inspired countless films, books and songs, Romeo and Juliet touches anyone experiencing the complicated yet simple paradox of love.

Peter Evans (not the Paleo and MKR chef) confidently directs the performances after becoming the co-director of the Bell Shakespeare Company alongside the legendary John Bell. Only in his 40s, he's already a pro with Shakespeare, directing his first play, Macbeth, with the company 20 years ago.



Many in the audience will have the visions of Leo and Claire, instinctively contrasting their chemistry with the talents of this local pairing. Alex Williams is magical in the role of Romeo, conveying an intensity honed after captivating performances as Julian Assange in the 2012 film 'Underground: The Julian Assange Story' and Kirk Pengilly in the 2014 miniseries 'INXS: Never Tear Us Apart'. Kelly Paterniti disarms him as Juliet, capturing his attentions as surely as if Cupid had launched a quiver of arrows into his heart. She's a familiar face to Aussie audiences after prolific work in lead roles in television dramas including Home and Away, Packed to the Rafters, Cops L.A.C. and Stormworld.



As with any Bell Shakespeare production, there is a distinctive look to the sets and costumes, retaining the historical beauty while subtly incorporating references to the chaos of modern life. This evening of love and drama will leave your heart racing, inspiring you to share an embrace and kiss with your lover (or find love) while within the picturesque Sydney Harbour as you stroll into the night.

The play concludes on March 27, with a variety of start times (1pm, 2pm, 4pm, 6.30pm, 7.30pm) to appeal to lovers of all ages.

The programme is available to read on a smartphone, tablet or laptop, featuring a detailed synopsis, cast and crew interviews and lavish costume and set photography.

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