With bright lights, elaborate costumes, and whimsical set designs, Potomac Falls High School’s drama department will make its long-awaited return with the Shakespearean classic, “Romeo and Juliet.” This heartfelt tale of two star-crossed lovers in the town of Verona follows Romeo, played by Gabriel Herrera, and Juliet, played by Hayley Johnson, in their whirlwind love affair. The twist? Instead of being set in Elizabethan times, the play takes place in Little Italy, New York during the roaring 20s.
Despite the stigma of Shakespearean plays being, “dull,” “boring,” or “stuffy,” this version brings new energy to the play with flapper girls and an Italian mafia. When asked why people should come see the show, veteran drama teacher Renee Haynes replied, “Romeo and Juliet is an age-old story that everybody studies in high school. Everyone should have a chance to see it acted onstage.”
Current senior and dedicated thespian Kyle Petrosino adds, “This is an action packed classic with an amazingly perfect cast.” Likewise, Lisa Gross, a teacher new to Potomac Falls High School’s drama department, said, “There has been a lot of dedication and hard work from the actors and techies. When I went to school at Park View, we were always very impressed with Potomac Falls, and it is already obvious how dedicated students are to Romeo and Juliet. This play will set the tone for what will undoubtedly be a very, very good year for theater.”
With such hype from the directors, cast, and technical crews, “Romeo and Juliet” promises to be an exceptional beginning to a year of theatrical successes.