A comedic retelling of Shakespeare’s most celebrated romance is set to arrive at a Oxford venue, bringing with it an unconventional approach to the Bard’s work.
The Rubbish Shakespeare Company will present its award-winning family-friendly version of Romeo and Juliet at Pegasus Theatre on Saturday, October 3.
Two performances are scheduled, at 11am and 2pm respectively.
The production comes fresh from claiming the Best Kids Show accolade at the Leicester Comedy Festival.
Described as a smash-hit and sell-out run, the adaptation delivers 60 minutes of energetic action that shatters theatrical conventions.
The production utilises worn wigs, physical comedy, and an inflatable mattress retrieved from waste containers.
Lee Hithersay takes on the role of Juliet.
According to the performer, the production aims for romance but audience reactions tend toward laughter.
The character experiences outbursts and relies on an airbed, while attempting to develop feelings for Romeo despite his appearance.
The performer described the situation as attempting to endure the proceedings.
The production has received critical praise, with The Wee Review describing it as thoroughly entertaining nonsense.
The show weaves Shakespeare’s original dialogue together with clowning, physical comedy, and playful narrative techniques.
The performance is suitable for children from age five upwards.
Clem Studholme portrays Romeo.
According to the performer, the production may appear disorderly but every element undergoes careful rehearsal.
Each stumble, fall, and flip serves a purpose, designed to elicit the strongest audience response even when movements seem accidental.
Established in Liverpool in 2010, the Rubbish Shakespeare Company has built its reputation on presenting Shakespeare in accessible and enjoyable formats for family audiences.
Costumes and set pieces originate from charitable retailers, discarded waste, and performers’ personal residences, encouraging younger audience members to explore Shakespeare using available resources.