Romeo & Juliet

Note From the Director Welcome! Romeo and Juliet were teenagers who discovered the joy and consequence of falling in love. They weren’t trying to take on the whole hatred-between-their-families issue. In fact, as Friar Lawrence sug- gested, they really thought their marriage would bring peace to the generation-old hostility. Being a part of this production has been my privilege. I am indebted to an incredible cast and crew, faithful student leaders. My friends, Don Jones and Bob Clements, have inspired me through their set and lighting designs, carried out under Tim Phipps’ guidance. My thanks, as always, to my family for their support. We hope that as you share this beautiful story with us, you will celebrate the love in your own life— love that is powerful enough to overcome hatred. In any time period. Any culture. Rebecca Baker Director Although Shakespeare is no stranger to the Cedarville stage, we hope you enjoy the surprises you might find along the way—details that are unique to this production. Director Rebecca Baker and designer D.N.C. Jones have carefully woven together the art of jazz, art deco, Miami, swing, romance, and the 30s flair with the most famous love story of all time. William Shakespeare (1564-1616), born during the Renaissance Period, was greatly affected by the time in which he lived. Capitalism began to surface as was evidenced by the money that Shake- speare made while investing in the Globe theatre. With London’s population doubling in the 16th century and the increase in theatre participation, Shakespeare was able to connect with his culture through the power of words. This time period, marked by change, gave Shakespeare the freedom that he needed in order to write the plays and poems that are still popular today. Interestingly enough, the 1930s also marked a drastic time of change for Americans seeking that same freedom. Entertainment became a huge focus in the minds of Americans as they sought relief from the troubles brought by The Great Depression. The thirties are embodied by the haunting so- los and big brass sounds of the jazz and swing era, songs which still resonate with audiences today. Artistically, this particular version of Romeo and Juliet draws mostly from the influence of Art Deco style (Miami itself was influenced tremendously by the Art Deco movement), with its clean lines and modern sensibility. Art Deco is the glimpse into the lives of the upper class, where glitz, glamour, and fantasy reigned with a distinctly modern flair. When the production begins, it is truly our hope that you experience the freedom that has inspired this drama since its very beginning. Feel free to let your mind rub shoulders with these characters on Miami Beach. Sway with the jazz, glow with the color, and bask in the romance of William Shake- speare’s Romeo and Juliet. Dramtrug Notes