Romeo and Juliet review by Karen Hart

Wadham Players Theatre Group
Willow Cottage,
Curtis Mill Green

As some of Shakespeare’s most popular plays, Romeo and Juliet has been performed on countless occasions, but rarely in such enchanting surroundings Willow Cottage, the open-air theatre near Stapleford Abbots.

This idyllic setting perfectly accompanied the poetic verse of this lovely play.

The prolific Wadham Players captivated their audience with a faultless production, making us laugh at the lighter moments and sympathise with the ill-fated lovers and their eventual demise.

Lee Ocsko and Nadia Rich shone as Romeo and Juliet with both actors putting in first class, believable performances.

There was a strong supporting cast here, with Matthew Jones, excellent as Romeo’s close friend, Mercutio, portraying his fun loving character to great effect and Andy B as Benvolio, Romeo’s cousin, also put in an accomplished performance.

Jill Atkins convinced in the role of Juliet’s nurse, as did Chris Millington and Elaine Elliott as Lord and Lady Capulet.

In fact, the whole cast worked well together, displaying their obvious talent for the more exacting works.

Also, the hard work of those behind the scenes was very evident in this production. Dominic Kinnaird as fight arranger was responsible for some great fight sequences and everyone involved with the costume production which was first class.

Also Michael Michael as producer and director, helped to make this not only an esteemed production and a magical evening’s entertainment, but this was one of the most enjoyable productions of this play I have ever seen.