Juliet (Justine Kitteringham) lies in a deep sleep in a hallway rehearsal for the Jan. 14 CHS production.
On Jan. 14 in the black box theater, a modern take on William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” will open under the direction of 2010 Carmel High graduate Christopher Sullinger.
It is just like the classic play, but with a little twist. Sullinger’s version takes place in the modern day and features an emo Romeo, played by senior Zane Saddy. Juliet, played by senior Justine Kitteringham, is just like the Juliet in Shakespeare’s original.
“It’s just like the actual play but with an emo Romeo,” Saddy says. “Our play is also funny and set in a prep school.”
The play was written by Shakespeare early in his career. It is about two star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, whose deaths end up ending the feud between their families, the Montagues and the Capulets. Capulets and Montagues are sworn enemies, but that doesn’t stop the two lovers.
“It’s basically like ‘The Hunger Games,’” Kitteringham comments. “He’s from District 12, and I’m from District 1.”
Romeo, so to speak, agrees with Juliet, as Saddy believes that this play appeals to people of all ages because it has jokes that everyone can understand.
“Shakespeare is a lot raunchier than people think because there are a lot of penis jokes in the play,” Saddy says.
In this version of Romeo and Juliet, there is a lot of partying and love-making. Even though Saddy and Kitteringham have never before worked together, they passionately kiss a lot during the performance.
Since the fall production of the “Odd Couple,” which also starred Saddy in a lead role, got pushed back, memorizing lines and fitting in enough practices has proven to be a problem.
“No one can miss a practice,” Saddy comments. “If one of us does, the play won’t open on time.”
If you love “Romeo and Juliet,” or if you want something to do next month, perhaps come and support your fellow classmates by watching the play.
-Kim Burns
