(Best of the Capital Fringe)
DC Reynolds Bar hosts an unconventional take on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Directed by Sara Bickler, and originally performed by NYC’s Three day Hangover, R+J: Star-Cross’d Death Match is a wacky and enjoyable evening, filled with laughter and drinking, and two families you would never want to be a member of. Get them out of my face-please!
And what an experience it is! Audience participation and drinking is encouraged. Taking place in multiple rooms throughout the bar the actors are up close and personal making you feel not merely a spectator, but a fully immersed participant. Expect the actors to acknowledge your presence and ask you questions.
For Romeo and Juliet fans, this is a unique take. And for theatre lovers and lovers of a good beer-even if you don’t care for this ‘new take’-you’ll drink well! The transition between Elizabethan and modern English is refreshing and amusing. My favorite performance was Mercutio played by Noelle Viñas, who stole the spotlight as Romeo’s best friend for life.
Sara Bickler directs a talented and very convincing cast: joining Noelle Viñas are Josh Adams (Romeo; Loren Bray (Juliet); Christopher Holbert (Friar Laurence); Jen Bevan (Tybalt);Erica Smith (Capulets); John Stange (Prince); Tifanny Garfinkle (Nurse); Yoni Gray (Benvolo).
Be prepared to drink to your heart’s content.
Whose side will you drink to Romeo Montague, or Juliet Capulet?
R+J: Star Cross’d Death Match plays through July 26, 2014 at DC Reynolds Bar-3628 Georgia Avenue. NW, in Washington, DC. For information and to purchase tickets, go to their Capital Fringe page.
