Romeo und Julia
Join us for a stunning rendition of William Shakespeare's classic play, Romeo and Julia, featuring performances by Lea Ruckpaul, Vincent zur Linden, Pia Händler, and others. This production, in collaboration with the Deutsches Theatermuseum München, brings to life the tragic tale of love amidst the chaos of family feuds in Verona.
In what is often deemed Shakespeare's most romantic work, the streets of Verona are initially filled with conflict rather than romance. Despite a truce imposed by the prince between the warring Montague and Capulet clans, tensions run high, leading to further deaths at the slightest provocation. The youngest heirs of these feuding families discover a new language beyond the sword: 'Here, hatred rages, but love rages more,' they assert, secretly challenging the animosity of their families. The delicate poetry of their love suggests a hope for peace that extends beyond their own happiness.
Unlike the concurrently penned Sommernachtstraum, here the night reveals true emotions, where names and lineage lose their significance. Though Shakespeare's lovers do not survive to hear the lark's song, their story shines a light on the possibility of ending hostilities.
Director Elsa-Sophie Jach focuses on the roles assigned to both the feuding families and the genders within this narrative of love and death. As she notes, 'Little is as it appears in the most famous love story of the theater, least of all the people. Their language is ambiguous, risqué, overflowing, and beautiful. They are driven, unanchored, and relentless. Are they steered by hatred or love, or is it greed? Is it still possible to pause and find understanding in a state of frenzy? Often, when a person is very close to death, he becomes very cheerful, says Romeo; they call it the lightning before death.'
The set design by Marlene Lockemann features a striking metallic cube that unfolds into a versatile performance space, inviting movement and interaction. The costumes, designed by Johanna Stenzel, blend humor and history, creating a contemporary twist on the classic tale.
Through a dynamic and thought-provoking presentation, this adaptation emphasizes the roles of women, with notable performances by Pia Händler as the Nurse and Lisa Stiegler as Benvolio. Lea Ruckpaul and Vincent zur Linden embody the titular lovers, showcasing Julia's strength and self-determination against the backdrop of familial expectations.
Experience the power of love and its potential to challenge the status quo. The performance runs for three hours with an intermission, and has received standing ovations from audiences.