The timing might not have been the best for Vpstart Crow Productions to flex its dormant Shakespeare muscles by mounting a production of "Romeo and Juliet" when Washington's Folger Theatre is presenting a version hailed by critics and audiences as a glittering success.
This is the first, tentative foray back into the Bard's work, which is at the heart of Crow's mission, the work that gave the troupe an enviable reputation in recent years. Following a prolonged period of internecine warfare that brought the departure of guiding artistic figures, Crow is rising from the ashes with a by-the-numbers production that lacks the old group's flair and originality. It is, nevertheless, a promising new start.
Jack Powers and Karla Sakas play the title roles as Vpstart Crow Productions returns to its Shakespearean roots with a production of "Romeo and Juliet."
(Courtesy Of Melissa York)
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The tragic romance is a straightforward, no-frills production highlighted by a cohesive ensemble of capable actors mostly making their Vpstart Crow debut.
Director Bob Smith is keeping it simple and basic at the Cramer Center in Manassas. The setting is the original 14th-century Italy, and the scenic and lighting design by Stephen J. Cramer is scaled back. The lighting is mostly flat and unchanging, and the set is a one-dimensional backdrop, with the requisite balcony, evocative of the stages used in Shakespeare's day.
The acting is naturalistic and animated, helping Shakespeare's characters become accessible to modern audiences.
Smith's cast is versatile and energetic. As Romeo, Jack Powers exudes adolescent vigor; he is a swashbuckling and brash lover.
The supporting cast is solid, with actors such as Lucile Hood as Nurse and Jay Tilley as Friar Laurence adding a rich layer of character and personality to the tale. As Lord Capulet, Sky Adams deftly personifies the bitterness that underlines this story. When he hurls his wayward daughter to the floor, spitting out that his fingers itch for violence, the sense of unreasoning hatred is palpable.
Several actors mix disparate traits into engaging, unexpected packages, including Chalmers Hood IV blending lusty vitality with an imp's wit as Mercutio. Christine Lange, meanwhile, emphasizes Benvolio's playful side and tones down the usual bluster.
As Juliet, Karla Sakas seems competent enough but is hampered by creating a perky persona. Her Juliet is overeager, rarely dreamy. Whether a mistake of the director or in her interpretation, the frisky characterization robs Juliet's scenes with Romeo of their potential to steam up the set, losing any romantic chemistry.
Diminished, Romeo and Juliet almost seem relegated to secondary players in their own story. Fortunately, the dynamic supporting cast picks up the dramatic slack.
Smith didn't have a fight coordinator, but the swordfights, several of which are extended, are exhilarating and fun -- even the battle between Tybalt (Cory Eskridge) and Mercutio, despite its tragic conclusion.
Although the set and lighting aren't much to look at, the costumes from Amber Hayes certainly are. Colorful and with complex detail, the period clothing helps create the romanticism of the era, even if the central amour does not.
"Romeo and Juliet" by Vpstart Crow Productions continues through March 13 at the Cramer Center, 908 Center St., Manassas. Performances at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. For individual tickets, go to www.tickets.com or call 800-955-5566. For group sales or information, call 703-365-0240 or go to www.cramercenter.com.
