Star-Ledger reviews Romeo and Juliet program

Jan 13, 2015

The Star-Ledger reviews the 2015 Winter Festival’s opening program, writing:

The performance [of selections from Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet paired with scenes featuring actors from The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey] was sensitively lighted and thoughtfully staged, from a moment in which the star-crossed lovers held hands across a small platform to pulse-quickening sword fights. The title roles were played with touching sincerity and ardor by Lindsey Kyler and Jackson Moran.

Underscoring the drama, Lacombe culled a colorful rendition of the Prokofiev. The orchestra brought character and crispness to light flourishes that corresponded with the town awakening and suspense to zagging and pounding chase motives illustrating conflict between Tybalt and Mercutio. Excerpts were skillfully woven into the text, not always in order, as with the ballet's gnashing Act III introduction, which started off this performance off on a dramatic note.

If occasionally strong-armed, the repeated see-sawing "Dance of the Knights" melody carried appropriate weight and darkness that complemented the actors, and suited the moving production.

Read the full review at nj.com.

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