c21’s Romeo and Juliet arrives in Ballymena

Produced by Belfast theatre company c21, who are usually treading the boards at Christmas in the Braid Arts Centre, this turbo-charged, pared-down version of the famous romantic drama distils all the beauty, violence and tragedy of the original… but in less than 90 minutes.

St. Patrick’s College (Thursday) and St Louis Grammar (Friday) will host the production which been especially adapted for schools and smaller theatre venues. The original script that has been adapted by Gary Wilson will include all the key scenes. Shakespeare’s universally known language is still intact but in a more condensed and accessible form.

The production has just left the Grand Opera House with great reviews under its belt and is now on tour around Northern Ireland. The c21 Theatre Company is fronted by local actor and producer Stephen Kelly (pictured) who is delighted at the prospect of bringing Romeo and Juliet back to his former school:

“This is an idea that I’ve had for some time now to try and create a production that can meet both the needs of the theatre and the school. For the first time ever, we will bring our set and six professional actors into the school and perform for the students. It’s a bonus that one of these schools (St. Patrick’s) happens to be where I used to attend”.

Also availing of this opportunity will be pupils from Slemish College, Dunclug College and Cullybackey High School who are part of Ballymena Learning Together Performing Arts AS and A Level classes. A number of the pupils attending will then participate in a workshop facilitated by c21.

The workshops have been especially created to compliment the production in order to engage young people with this classic tale. Sponsorship has been secured for the tour from shipping company Burke Shipping Group and a matched investment from funders Arts & Business NI will pay for these workshops.

Brona Whittaker, Arts Manager, Arts & Business NI said:
“We are delighted to be involved with this project. c21 Theatre Company’s offer of complementary drama workshops, based on the production, to each of the schools who book a performance of Romeo and Juliet will add immeasurably to young people’s appreciation of this classic production. These workshops extend c21’s partnership with Burke Shipping Group showing an inspired extension of the arts into the wider rural community.”

Nicola Stanix, Head of Performing Arts St. Patrick’s College said: “The ‘c21 Theatre Company’ has visited the school with a variety of projects in the past and they always provide a professional and enjoyable experience for the pupils. The pupils and staff from all schools are looking forward to the project and the opportunity to experience professional live theatre on their doorstep”.

Please contact Stephen Kelly on 07752089400 for details.