VCU Theatre Department’s production of William Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet is an exploration of identity, archetype, and the navigation of internal desire in relation to the external expression of the self. In what ways do we elect to “perform” roles that are often out of alignment with our true inner selves? When the comedy of life turns tragic, how can we break from constricting societal expectations, cultural limitations, and inherited trauma to expand through perceived endless cycles and into undefined territory?
In this production, the timeless tale and classic text are approached from a collective of unique perspectives that dare to confront both the structure of the story itself and the intentional framing of it. In the midst of overwhelming life circumstances, how can we empower ourselves to reclaim what was always ours to hold dear?
ABOUT THE DIRECTOR
Irene Kuykendall, is a director, actor, and educator with a Master’s in Text & Performance from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London and conservatory training from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC. Directing credits include: The Cottage, Moriarty: A New Sherlock Holmes Mystery, and A Broadway Christmas (Virginia Rep), GASLIGHT (Swift Creek Mill), The Importance of Being Earnest (Richmond Shakespeare at RTP), and Twelfth Night (RCT). Educational direction includes: The Addams Family, ALL SHOOK UP and The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley (Virginia Rep, Summer Showtime), CLUE and MEAN GIRLS (MHS), The Good Fight (ARGS), Emma! A Pop Musical (MWRGS), and more. Visit www.irenejkuykendall.com for acting credits.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
Performances are October 1 – 4 at the W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts (922 Park Ave Richmond, VA 23284).
Showtimes:
Thursday, October 1 at 7:30 p.m.
Friday, October 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 3 at 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, October 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, October 4 at 3:00 p.m.
Tickets: $27. Tickets available here: bit.ly/vcutheatretix
