Romeo and Juliet – Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Bell Shakespeare

Overview

Stroppy teens they may have been but their names have become synonymous with love. Romeo and Juliet has to be one of the best known and most adapted plays in the English language and this week two arts companies, both alike in dignity, will be joining forces for a homage to the star-crossed pair.

John Bell and his troupe of Shakespeare experts will be performing key scenes from the play – so expect the balcony and several deaths at least – while the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra will perform extracts from musical works inspired by the story, such as the Tchaikovsky ballet and the pastoral opera version by Delius. No word yet if any of the West Side Story soundtrack’s going to make it in.

Playing at the glittering Hamer Hall, with a free pre-show performance by young artists, it is possibly the ultimate romantic date night experience. Boyfriends everywhere, take note.