“Romeo & Juliet” at Hartford Stage by Zander Opper

“Romeo & Juliet”

Hartford Stage

Hartford Stage is currently presenting a resplendent production of “Romeo & Juliet.” Deftly directed by Melia Bensussen and featuring a faultless cast, this staging is sure to entertain even those who are less familiar with Shakespeare.  On Christopher and Justin Swader’s gorgeous, expansive set, this tragedy is played out with many moments of sadness, as well as scenes of great humor. 

Hartford Stage has certainly found the ideal Romeo and Juliet, portrayed beautifully by Niall Cunningham and Carmen Berkeley, respectively.  This production feels wonderfully paced, with each scene making its mark on its way to the tragic conclusion.  Along the way, several of the supporting characters get their opportunities to shine and the show is engaging from beginning to end.  So, do go to see this “Romeo & Juliet” at Hartford Stage.  As frequently as this classic play is presented, there are still unique rewards to be had at this current production.

The program is very helpful in delineating how all the characters are related to each other, especially signaling the rift between the Capulets and the Montagues.  From the mood setting first scenes in the show, the time and place of this “Romeo & Juliet” is immediately established and I will confess to being very pleased that, instead of being updated, this production feels very much set in the time period of the original play. The costumes designed by Fabian Fidel Aguilar are splendid, with an array of marvelous outfits for Juliet alone, and the lighting design (courtesy of Dan Kotlowitz) is sensational, but this show is much more than just a visual feast.

Giving substance to the levity of the play and the many characters in the show, there are several performers who get their moments in the spotlight.  Alejandra Escalante is quite wonderful as Mercutio and she brings a variety of layers to the character.  Also standing out is Juliet’s Nurse, warmly and sensitively portrayed by Annmarie Kelly, as well as Juliet’s cousin Tybalt (the appropriately fierce Brandon Burditt).  As Friar Laurence, Carman Lacivita is all you could ask for in the part and, even though this character is always crucial in productions of “Romeo & Juliet,” Lacivita brings a stunning display of humility to the part that is especially memorable. 

Further, Gerardo Rodriguez and Eva Kaminsky are perfect as Lord and Lady Capulet, respectively, and both actors bring all the majesty required for these roles.  On the Montague side, Juan Arturo is excellent as Romeo’s cousin Benvolio, and it also must be said that Opa Adeyemo is quite fine in the role of Count Paris, whom Lord and Lady Capulet have designated to be Juliet’s husband.  In fact, just about every member of this company is strong and their collective work is terrific.

Still, it is the title characters who must deliver most significantly and this is certainly true in this “Romeo & Juliet.”  With red hair and boundless energy, Niall Cunningham is a handsome and tender Romeo right from the start and the moment that his eyes spot Juliet for the first time (at a masquerade ball), there is a striking feeling of romance in the air.  Matching her costar flawlessly, Carmen Berkeley is a lovely and inquisitive Juliet and it is easy to see why one would instantly fall madly in love with her.  These two actors bring a lot of heart and depth to their roles, as well, and the characters’ ultimate denouement is as moving and sobering as ever.

There is also festive choreography (by Dale A. Merrill) in the production and the key dance scenes in the show work in precise accordance with Melia Bensussen’s overall direction, which is both fluid and enormously textured.  This “Romeo & Juliet” can definitely be considered a winner for Hartford Stage and it is a production which most certainly deserves to be applauded.  So, even for those new to this timeless tale, this show plays out with plenty of comedy and heartbreak, as well as a confidence that is enormously bracing.

“Romeo & Juliet” runs through May 18, 2025 at Hartford Stage, 50 Church St., Hartford CT.  For tickets and more information, please call 860-527-5151 or visit www.hartfordstage.org.  

Photo: Niall Cunningham and Carmen Berkley (front) and Carman Lacivita (back)

Photo by T. Charles Erickson