William Shakespeare's enduring tragedy, “Romeo and Juliet,” is coming to the Mars Theatre, with performances by Back Alley Productions running Feb. 9-18. 

Performances are set for Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets may be purchased online at BAPshows.com or in-person at the box office. Also available for a limited time are the 2018 season passes. The historic theater is at 117 N. Chattanooga St., in Lafayette. 

Review for Romeo and Juliet: 

Romeo and Juliet is a tragedy about two young lovers who break from their feuding families in order to be with each other, and the destructive and deadly results that occur when hatred is allowed to rule households. The play, set in Verona, Italy, begins with a street brawl between Montague and Capulet servants who, like their masters, are sworn enemies. The Prince of Verona intervenes and declares that any further breach of the peace will be punishable by death. 

“Like many, Romeo and Juliet, during high school was my first introduction into Shakespeare,” director Kaylee Smith said. “It still brings back early memories of wanting the star-crossed lovers to get their happy ending. Like the audience I always want to scream wait, stop, do something different, but Shakespeare doesn’t spare our star-crossed lovers. Despite being a well-known plot, it’s a story we all come back to time and time again, which speaks volumes to the timeless relevance. Shakespeare was beyond his years, and his writings are as relevant today as they were to his generation and they are absolutely best learned and felt in live theatre. 

"Romeo and Juliet, young people on the brink of adulthood, fall in love, and by doing so, part with the hate of their families. When Tybalt Juliet’s cousin notices, his hate grows, and it leads to an inevitable breach of the Prince’s law and to the inevitable conclusions that occur. 

“I think Shakespeare was one of those rare artists who could communicate the human condition
in a way that appeals to everyone. Love makes people do crazy things and hate within families and communities causes significant destruction. I’m very proud of this cast and their ability to tap into the mind and work of the Bard to present this retelling at the Mars Theatre. Don’t worry about it being a tale written long ago, or the language, Back Alley actors have been doing Shakespeare since 2013 and know how to make the audience become engaged in both dialogue and action. Trust us, you’ll forget the fact it was written so long ago, and you’ll follow along on the edge of your seat."

This play has a PG-13 rating with themes of violence, adult themes, and suicide. Contact Ms. Smith at 706-621-2870 with any questions.