Off-Broadway Production
Joe Calarco's Shakespeare's R&J premiered Off-Broadway in 1997 at the John Houseman Theater, running over 230 performances. Winner of the Lucille Lortel Award Nominated for Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards
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Produced in 15+ countries, translated into 8 languages
"Shakespeare's R&J" (2023). Photos by Amazeland Production.
Synopsis
Inside a repressive academic institution, four students secretly rehearse Romeo and Juliet. As they immerse themselves in the world of Shakespeare, their own emotions and relationships shift. The line between performance and reality blurs-unveiling passion, rebellion, and awakening.
Production History
NYC , US
London, UK
Tokyo, Japan
Seoul, South Korea
Shanghai, China
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Playwright
Joe Calarco is an award-winning American playwright and director. His 1997 adaptation Shakespeare's R&J reimagines the classic as a powerful exploration of identity, desire, and repression through layered roleplay.
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Lucille Lortel Award Winner
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Works staged at Lincoln Center, Second Stage, and abroad
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Known for blending bold theatrical form with emotional depth
Characters
Student 1.
Quiet, intense, and deeply drawn to Shakespeare's words. Takes on Romeo with raw sincerity. Their journey explores the cost of vulnerability.
Student 2.
Charismatic and rebellious. Drawn to Juliet's poetry and defiance. Through performance, they discover new emotional language.
Student 3.
Observant, sharp-tongued, and a natural performer. Plays Mercutio and others. They navigate the tension between wit and hidden truths.
Student 4.
Playful, earnest, and hungry for connection. Portrays multiple roles with intensity and heart. Learns the stakes of transformation.
“Shakespeare’s R&J”(2023). Photos by Amazeland Production.