The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Torrington High students to stage ‘Romeo and Juliet’
Student theater to stage Shakespeare’s classic romantic tragedy
TORRINGTON — The Torrington High School Student Theatre presents William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet” wth performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. in the THS Little Theatre.
This modern version of the timeless classic takes place in a contemporary city of Verona which is divided between the political families and policies of Senators Capulet and Montague.
Today’s political scene, both in our state and our country, are the inspiration behind the THS Student Theatre’s production of this well-known tragedy.
As the play unfolds, a longsimmering hatred between their two families leads the young lovers, Romeo and Juliet to keep their relationship secret from their families.
How can love survive in a city where children are taught to hate? Violence simmers just under the surface of this city long torn by familial and political alliances. The hatred their families bear for each other leads to fighting and death. What does the future hold for the survivors of this heartbreak?
The title roles are played by seniors Justin Torres and Gianna DelMonte. The roles of their trusted mentors, Nurse and Friar Lawrence, are played by freshman Caroline Ahlman and senior Shaisck Cornejo. Juliet’s parents, Senator and Lady Montague, are played by seniors Michael Calabrese and Elizabeth Maryanski. Romeo’s parents, Senator and Lady Montague, are played by senior Gillian Hass and junior Aubrie Dell’Agnese.
The fiery Tybalt is played by William Wilson and the dramatic Mercutio by Alexia Fox.
Peacemaker Benvolio is played by Bailey Clark. Junior Emily Vasquez has taken on the role of Governor Prince, the ruler of Verona. Four students, Alyssa Archambault, Serena Rosado, Maggie Schnyer, and Natalie Garrison take the role of the chorus as they sing and narrate the show.
The show is directed by Torrington Middle School teacher, Veronica Gelormino, with assistance by senior Sofia Frauenhofer, set design and construction is by Torrington High School teacher Victor Leger, and fight choreography is by Torrington resident Rob Richnavsky. THS Art teacher, Emily Patnaude is the producer for this production, with assistance from student producer Gia Hoa Lam.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets can be reserved in advance by emailing Emily Patnaude at epatnaude@torrington.org or can be purchased at the door.