The University of Auckland in association with AUSA and Archipela Productions presents

Outdoor Summer Shakespeare 2005
Romeo and Juliet

This year's production of Romeo and Juliet will be the fortieth play to have been performed since this revered Auckland institution's inception in 1963. The University of Auckland in association with AUSA and Archipela Productions presents

Outdoor Summer Shakespeare 2005
Romeo and Juliet

This year's production of Romeo and Juliet will be the fortieth play to have been performed since this revered Auckland institution's inception in 1963.Its director, Matthew Gillanders is a talented emerging young artist already developing a reputation for presenting provocative and inspiring theatre, most notably through Archipela Productions, in partnership with co-founder Brett Simpson.

This production will please Shakespearean purists and novices alike, with its 17th century setting and 'traditional' interpretation of the text. However, for those who like their Shakespeare with a bit more of a twist it offers the personification of Fate casting an unforgiving eye over the citizens of Verona, and a narration, in the guise of Friar Laurence, reminiscent of Samuel Taylor Coleridge's Rime of the Ancient Mariner.

A number of roles have been altered to provide a greater gender balance including Prince Escalus, who becomes the Queen of Verona and Benvolio, now transformed into a boyish female constantly battling for respect in a male-dominated society.

In addition to its textual richness, the production is a visual symphony. With a cast numbering over twenty and a set standing over ten metres tall, Romeo and Juliet will be presented on a scale that is rarely achievable. With stunning costumes designed by Parisian costumier Laure Skaky and the all-important action scenes brought vividly to life through the fight choreography of Lord of the Rings stuntman Peter Calveley, the production promises to rate as one of the theatrical highlights of the year.

Website: www.archipela.co.nz
Email: info@archipela.co.nz

Season: February 12 - March 12, 7.30pm. No performance Sunday.
Location: Old Arts Quad, University of Auckland

Bookings: Maidment Theatre, 6 Alfred Street. Ph 308 2383