ROMEO AND JULIET

Thu 28 July - Sat 6 August 1994 at 7.30pm (No performance on Sunday)
Performed in the open air in the grounds of St Andrew's Hospital, Billing Road, Northampton

Photo gallery

Actor Adam Young received a boost to his career when he was spotted by a local director.

Adam, 21, was playing Romeo, in the Masque Theatre's production of Romeo and Juliet, when he was spotted by Michael Napier Brown from the Royal Theatre.

Having recognised Adam's potential, the director has offered him several parts in the Royal Theatre's forthcoming production of Christmas Carol, including the role of The Ghost of Christmas Past.

Adam has been involved in amateur dramatics since he joined Playhouse Theatre Company, after leaving school at 16.

He left his job in a jeweller's to study performing arts at Northampton College, and this year he gained his B-Tec.

His ambition is to go to drama school but he says it will be a struggle to collect funds.

In these days of soap operas and films with fairy tale endings, the tragic story of Romeo and Juliet seems out of place.

There is no happy ending. Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers lie dead, victims of a cruel set of circumstances.

Northampton’s Masque Theatre have chosen the 400-year-old tale for their annual outdoor Shakespeare production, perfectly capturing the spirit of the classic play.

The company present Romeo and Juliet on a sparse set with fine use of colour, particularly in the costumes, which reach Masque’s usual high standard.

Each family is represented with a different colour, making the kin of each character instantly recognisable.

Masked people loiter in the background giving the impression that the sinister turn of events is beyond the control of the lovers and that there is no escape from the impending tragedy.

Director Peter Whittle creates a very effective production. The actors are clearly audible for the vast majority of the play and standing with their backs to the audience is kept to the minimum.

Gina Lander and Adam Young excel in the lead roles, gripping the audience with the desperation of their love. They are well supported by the rest of a substantial cast.

When performing outdoors distractions are inevitable. Anything from passing cars or aeroplanes to gusts of wind or even rain is possible. But any diversions were ignored by the actors, failing to disturb the rhythm of Shakespeare’s prose.

Masque’s outdoor production of Romeo and Juliet continues their tradition of excellence with a very entertaining performance and an enjoyable way to spend a summer’s evening.