ARE you a re-viewer? Or a re-reader, or a re-teller? In other words, do you like to revisit old favourites: books, plays, TV programmes or films?

There’s a comfort in the familiarity of revisiting. The fact that we already know the characters, the story, and outcome frees up mental space to absorb other aspects. Great art comes in layers, not all of which can be unpeeled on a first encounter. Then the very fact that we’re taking the time to re-visit at all means the story chimed with us in the first place.

The other magic in the retelling is what we bring to it ourselves. However minutely we’ve changed since the last time.

There’s a third facet, particular to a new production of an old play: what do the current director and cast contribute?

All of which brings us to the Playhouse’s March offering, Romeo and Juliet. The story won’t surprise anyone, but you’ll find plenty of new points to ponder, as our presentation of the timeless tale of the star-crossed lovers is a contemporary interpretation featuring a young cast.

Love, feuds, violence, loss: these are perennial themes, but the contemporary presentation may help make them more accessible. How would 21st century people react in Shakespeare’s situations? Further, the familiarity of the setting allows the audience to concentrate on the beauty and depth of Shakespeare’s language.

There’s atmospheric music, much of it live singing from the cast, and some gripping and realistic fight scenes, along with some show-stopping set pieces, such as the Capulets’ ball scene.

Shakespeare veterans will find this production different enough to fascinate, while newcomers will find it accessible and welcoming.

Romeo and Juliet is on from March 8 to 18 with a matinee performance on Saturday, March 11.

God of Carnage is our next Fringe production in Wildman Studio, for three nights only March 23 to 25.

The work of Yazmine Reza, a French playwright, actor, and novelist, it carries some impressive pedigree: the London production won the Olivier award for Best New Comedy, and the Broadway version won Best Play at the 2009 Tony Awards.

Director Yvette Huddletson brings us a witty, cutting social satire about how easily the cloaks of propriety and sophistication can slip away. Following a playground incident, two sets of parents meet to discuss the behaviour of their children. What starts as a discussion between seemingly cultured middle-class professionals soon turns into something rather different. It’s a funny, biting production, beautifully crafted and brought to life by a talented director and cast.

To book tickets for these – or any of our other events – visit our website www.ilkleyplayhouse.co.uk or phone the Box Office on 01943 609539.

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