Pop-up Globe: Romeo and Juliet

Overview

A tale as old as time, in a remade venue as old as, well 1599. By now most should know about the replica of the iconic London theatre in Auckland, it's hard to miss the gigantic, donut-shaped polygonal building erected in the centre of town. As the Pop-up Globe season approaches its beginning, Shakespeare fanatics (like myself) are awaiting a string of shows to transport them back in time.

To kick off opening night with Romeo and Juliet could be seen as a little obvious, but why not start the season with a crowd favourite reenacted in an iconic setting. Everyone should know the story, if you don't...well you probably didn't pay enough attention in Year 10 English class, so I'll break it down for you without any spoilers. Basically, Romeo and Juliet is the tragic story of a young couple who fall in love despite the hatred between their families (the Montagues and the Capulets). A lot of miscommunication goes down between the couple, which of course creates a lot of Shakespeare-style drama. The whole tale turns out rather grimly for the pair but I'll leave it at that for those who have been living under a rock since birth. Check spark notes for the full synopsis if you want to read up (no need to hide it, I know you all did back in school), or alternatively go actually see the show.

With a long season ahead and a string of ticket options, there is really no excuse to stop you getting some culture. And a play like this? Well it's a classic and "for never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo".