McKinney Repertory Theatre
THE ETERNAL ROMEO AND JULIET
A New Play by Dr. Andrew B. Harris
The Eternal Romeo and Juliet explores the world's greatest love story through the work of two famous dramatists, William Shakespeare (1564-1611) and his Spanish contemporary, Lope de Vega (1562-1625). Writing and living in different countries and cultures, each set out to adapt the novel by Italian soldier/author Luigi Da Porto (1485-1529). Although the two worked during the same era, the playwrights faced vastly different production situations and as a result created contrasting plays. Shakespeare's tragedy is considered one of the finest pieces of literature in the English language while Lope's commedia, Castelvines y Monteses, remains more obscure. Eternal Romeo and Juliet begins as Da Porto brings Shakespeare and Lope to the bar of justice before the Muses in the poet's corner of heaven. He complains that his work has been irreparably damaged by the way the dramatists depict Giuletta (Juliet). Da Porto demands justice from the Muses, but the immortal beings are intrigued by the playwrights' work. The Muses reject Da Porto's request to be transported to Verona. Instead, they summon several actors and have Shakespeare and Lope re-enact scenes from their plays hoping to discover the source of Da Porto's complaint. Because of the scarcity of actors, Da Porto is forced into playing a part in this unusual joint production. Of course, he cannot help commenting on the rival plays and throwing in quotes from his novel. Eternal Romeo and Juliet poses the question, would a rose smell as sweet by any other name?
THE ETERNAL ROMEO AND JULIET
McKinney Repertory Theatre
Fri, Jan 25 thru Sun, Feb 3
Tickets: $15 adults; $12 seniors & students
Tickets & Info: 214-544-4630
Click HERE for on-line tickets.
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