Shakespeare's R&J August 7, 2008

Ben Gerrard, Paul-William Mawhinney, Will O’Mahony and Andrew Ryan star in a new production of SHAKESPEARE’S R & J, adapted by Joe Calarco, at Riverside Theatres from Thursday 7 August. This four man testosterone-pumped Romeo and Juliet is directed by Craig Ilott (The Pillowman, Hedwig and The Angry Inch).
In the repressive atmosphere of a Catholic boy’s school, four students decide to stage Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet for their own enjoyment. At first it’s just for laughs, but as the young men discover the themes of secret and forbidden love, they gradually immerse themselves in the roles.
“Shakespeare’s R&J is an innovative, sexy new interpretation of Shakespeare’s classic tragedy in the spirit of Dead Poet’s Society, and includes an ensemble of talented young Australian actors,” said producer Camilla Rountree.
This fascinating, insightful and beautifully crafted play was acclaimed in its 2001 premiere season at the Sydney Opera House Studio. Winner of the prestigious Lucille Lortel Award, Shakespeare’s R&J ran for a staggering 400 performances in New York City.
Ben Gerrard is a 2006 NIDA graduate who has appeared in Shakespeare On Trial for Canute Productions, Live Acts on Stage for St. Martin’s Youth Theatre and Romeo & Juliet for the Melbourne Shakespeare Society. His television credits include All Saints.
Paul-William Mawhinney graduated from NIDA in 2007. Paul has had roles in The Lost Echo at Sydney Theatre Company and most recently in The Keeper for B Sharp at Belvoir Street. His television credits include McLeods Daughters.
Will O’Mahony has an Advanced Diploma in Performing Arts (WAPPA). Whilst studying at WAPPA he appeared in productions such as The Winters Tale and Three Sisters.
Andrew Ryan graduated from The Queensland University of Technology (QUT) in 2006 and has been seen in the critically acclaimed feature film Black Balloon and TV series All Saints.
“The work’s imaginative power and its remarkable insights into the nature and value of love holds the audience in its thrall.”- Sydney Morning Herald
Director Craig Ilott
Designer Nicholas Dare
Lighting Designer Matthew Marshall
Composer Nick Wales
SHAKESPEARE’S R & J
VENUE: Riverside Theatres, Cnr Market and Church Streets, Parramatta
DATES: Thursday 7 August- Saturday 23 August
TIMES: Thurs 7 Aug 6:30pm, Fri 8 Aug, Sat 9, Wed 13, Fri 15, Sat 16, Wed 20, Fri 22, Sat 23 Aug at 8:15pm; Mon 11 - Thurs 14 Aug, Mon 18 - Thurs 21 Aug at 11am; Sat 16 & Sat 23 Aug at 2:15pm
SINGLE TICKET PRICES:
Wed-Thurs Eve & Sat Matinee Adults $44, Conc & Groups $39, 30 & Under $31, 16 & Under $23
Weekday Matinees $23
Fri & Sat Eve Adults $47, Conc & Groups $42, 30 & Under $34, 16 & Under $26
RIVERSIDESAVER PRICES (Subscribers):
Wed-Thurs Eve & Sat Matinee Adults $38, Conc & Groups $33, 30 & Under $28, 16 & Under $20
Weekday Matinees $20
Fri & Sat Eve Adults $41, Conc & Groups $36, 30 & Under $31, 16 & Under $23
BOOKINGS: Riverside Box Office 02 8839 3399 or www.riversideparramatta.com.au
DURATION: 2 hours (approx)