Romeo and Juliet is an intense love story of young impetuous impulsive love. For over 400 years the tale has been told in an array of incarnations and languages. It’s a well-known story whether you read Shakespeare at school, are a fan of Baz Luhrmann cinematic version or are simply aware of the narrative. Experiencing the romance through the ballet with only movement and music makes it all the more incredible.
The Australian Ballet, one of the world’s leading ballet companies, have chosen to perform choreographer John Cranko’s version for the final performance in the 2022 season. Cranko’s infuses drama into dance as he reveals the intensity of the young lovers in his beautiful classic. The plot and the music are intrinsically entwined. Set to Sergei Prokofiev’s 1930’s emotive score, the music is dramatic and timeless; the perfect accompaniment to the tragedy.
Dancing the title role’s is Benedicte Bemet (Juliet) and newcomer to the Australian Ballet this year (from English National Ballet) Joseph Caley (Romeo). A powerful dancer, Caley is energetic, literally sweeping Bemet off her feet. Together they pas de deux, expressing the angst and longing felt by the star-crossed lovers.
Breaking the intensity of Romeo and Juliet’s scenes, the carnival and marketplace ensemble acts provide light relief. A welcome respite of jovial entertainment where dancing turns playful, with men jumping into the air, merrily bumping shoulders.
This production includes the full cast of Australian Ballet dancers and there are many star performers including Mason Lovegrove who plays the spurned Lord Paris and Jake Mangakahia as Tybalt (Juliet’s short-tempered cousin). The ensemble and supporting cast round out the performance. Of note are Juliet’s bridesmaids, all dressed in white dancing delicately on the tips of their toes. The ensemble scenes are light-hearted and cheerful moments of gaiety until the lively sword fighting resumes.
Displaying the pageantry of medieval Verona, the set design shifts from the marketplace, to the ballroom, forest, crypt, and of course, Juliet’s balcony. Created by set and costume designer Jürgen Rose the costumes and sets are superb. The German stage designer has enjoyed an illustrious career designing for ballet, opera and theatres around the world. In Romeo and Juliet, colour plays an important role in helping to distinguish the rival houses, factions and key players. The fiery Montagues wearing red, Capulets dressed in blue, and villagers in colourful festive attire. The aristocratic elder generation are dressed in rich grandeur, fitting for their rank. Lavish weighty garments of velvet, jewels and intricate beading, making their movements slow and dramatic as they glide across the stage. While Juliet and Romeo wear neutral colours, with billowing fabrics, allowing them to stand-out all the more.
Widely considered the world’s greatest love story, Romeo and Juliet will delight audiences at the Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House until 21 December.
Standard adult ticket prices range from $59 to $353. To purchase tickets visit: https://australianballet.com.au/performances/romeo-and-juliet