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Issue date: 3/23/09 Section: Arts & Culture

Media Credit: www.tnstat.edu

In summer 2008, TSU's Theatre department put on a production of Shakespeare's classic play, Romeo and Juliet, and the results earned a distinction that set the university's student production into the history books.

The Nashville Scene named TSU's production of Romeo and Juliet, under the direction of TSU alumnus and veteran actor Barry Scott, Best Shakespeare of 2008, and the award is a first for the university.

"I'm just happy to be a part of a great production that is getting recognized for something positive," said Nikki Staggs, a junior theatre major from Japan, who also portrayed Romeo's historically male cousin, Benvolio, in the production. "We worked hard and it paid off."

By adjusting a few key elements (and some genders) of the story, TSU's production attempted to better connect with modern audiences. Interjecting musical elements also strengthened this connection.

The story, connecting with audience, seemed to be a key point, especially with other elements incorporated in the play by Scott and company.

"I wanted [the play] to be relevant," Scott said. "It's the most famous play in history. It's Shakespeare.

"The feuding made it work for gangs, and I wanted to expose more people to Shakespeare, and make it accessible," he continued.

By switching the feuding families with feuding gangs and changing the setting from Verona, Italy to Nashville, the timeless piece became almost instantly relatable to the community that would receive it. Amid all of the changes, the Shakespearian language remained unchanged.

"I was impressed by the switch to the Bloods and Crips," said Michelle Stevens, 31, a north Nashville resident and mother of two as the play concluded. "I had seen this play before but the change to gangs made it even more real for me."

In addition to making geographic and element changes to Shakespeare's work, the element of community dialogue was also implemented.

After each performance of the play, a discussion was held with the audience to evaluate the situation they had just seen on stage.

With the changed elements, Scott says he expected new reactions from the audience, though he was happy with the reception and acclaim, given by The Nashville Scene.

"[Romeo and Juliet] was a good show," Scott said. "We've got Shakespeare companies in Nashville and for an HBCU to beat all of those other companies is something to be proud of. I'm proud of the cast and crew myself."

Continued...

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