Circle in the Square, New York

In a vibrant new take on the classic tragedy, West Side Story’s Rachel Zegler and Heartstopper’s Kit Connor bring an energetic, pop-infused perspective to Romeo + Juliet. Directed by Sam Gold, this Broadway revival embraces a youthful spirit, showcasing a diverse cast and original music by the renowned Jack Antonoff. Gold’s vision captures the raw emotions and impulsive nature of teenage love, but there’s an underlying sense that he may not fully trust the material.

The production draws inspiration from Baz Luhrmann’s iconic 1996 film, setting the scene in a colorful fusion of arcade vibes and Brooklyn raves at the Circle in the Square Theatre. As the audience settles in, the cast—dressed in outfits that blend Brooklyn street style with high school drama aesthetics—interacts playfully on stage, mimicking the lively atmosphere of a basement party.

The energy can be captivating, particularly when Gabby Beans, portraying multiple characters, engages the audience with lively introductions and playful bravado. However, at times, the attempt to connect with a modern audience can come off as overly eager, reminiscent of a theater teacher trying a bit too hard to spark interest in Shakespeare. This is seen through elements like sexual innuendos, trendy fashion choices, and even a humorous nod to the social media phenomenon of “Borg” drinks.

In contrast to a more somber West End rendition featuring Tom Holland, Gold’s Romeo + Juliet opts for a maximalist approach, filled with glitter, pulsating synth music, and high-energy performances. Some creative choices, like breaking the fourth wall to perform the song “We Are Young,” inject humor, while the production grapples with balancing the intrinsic humor and passion of the original tale.

With guidance from Shakespeare scholars, this adaptation seeks to blend comedy and allure within its narrative, showcasing youthful exuberance and gender fluidity as actors navigate multiple roles. A standout moment occurs when Connor’s Romeo literally performs a pull-up to reach Juliet’s balcony—an amusing touch that draws audience applause.

The whirlwind of energy can be both disarming and chaotic, yet the performances of the lead characters ground the production. Zegler shines as Juliet, bringing a poignant intensity to her role despite occasionally stumbling through the traditional text. Connor, exhibiting a charming boyishness, finds his footing with the Shakespearean rhythm, providing a refreshing clarity amidst the energetic chaos around him.

While some performances err into the realm of overacting—perhaps in an effort to connect with a youthful audience—the cast’s lively interpretations serve to demystify Shakespeare for those who might find the original language daunting. In this reimagined tale, questions of youthful culture and connection emerge, making the experience not just about the tragic love story, but about what resonates with today’s teens.