Lost Dog’s Juliet & Romeo at the The Lowry Manchester Review

Reviewed by Kathryn Harrison

Last night (Tuesday 2 October 2018) my friend and I visited The Lowry theatre in Salford, Manchester to watch Juliet & Romeo. This production by Lost Dog tells a slightly different version of the classic Romeo and Juliet tale, one in which the two lovers do not die a tragic death but live on. Set many years after their near death experience in the vault Juliet and Romeo’s marriage is in trouble, they’re unhappy and on the verge of separation. As a way to try and overcome these difficulties they have decided to put on a performance discussing their problems and memories in the hope they can reignite their romance.

The play started in a very interesting manner with Juliet, played by Solène Weinachter, and Romeo, played by Ben Duke, directly conversing with the audience as their characters explaining the problems they are having and how they hope this evening can improve things. They begin by sharing memories of their love story with each individuals account differing slightly from the others. As they explore these memories they begin to dance and music begins to play which complements their retelling. Despite not having watched much professional dance I found the movement parts of the performance mesmerising and visually very interesting to watch.

The play introduces some interesting ideas about relationships, exploring how that all encompassing lust and passion at the start of a relationship can quickly fade away as time goes on and how the idea and expectation of a relationship can be much better than the reality. I found the idea of Juliet being unhappy in her mundane day to day life and dreaming of the more magnificent, epic life she was meant to live really interesting and believable.

I only have a basic knowledge of the story of Romeo and Juliet, my friend has studied and taught the text. Even with our differing knowledge of the original play we both really enjoyed this take on the story. I was most surprised by how funny the play was, the two actors ability to convey comedy in not all their words but their physical actions and facial expressions was superb.

This was a bizarre but brilliant show full of passion, comedy, music and wonderful choreography. Whether you are a Shakespeare fan or not you will enjoy this modern take on the classic love story.

Rating: 5/5

Lost Dog’s Juliet & Romeo is currently on tour around the UK, for more information and tour dates visit lostdogdance.co.uk.

For other shows The Lowry in Manchester visit www.thelowry.com or call the box office on 0843 208 6000.

The Lowry, Pier 8, Salford Quays, Manchester, M50 3AZ | 0843 208 6000