SHAKESPEARE’S R&J

By Joe Calarco

Set and Costume Designer

Reading Rep 2023

'A clever and beautiful set by Anna Kelsey literally steams with the intensity of the drama and integrates some pleasing lighting (John Rainsforth) which adds great atmosphere to this intimate and involving studio piece. The costumes ring true whilst avoiding the colour coding of the houses of Montague and Capulet seen in some productions of ‘Romeo and Juliet’.

The Spy in the Stalls - **** David Woodward 

‘The set is beautifully symmetrical – the square wooden stage and chairs at either side representing the boundaries of a classroom. Anna Kelsey’s costume design sees all four characters wearing school uniform, providing a sense of unity among them. Yet, each is distinguishably different, be it: the colour of their jumper, the way their tie is knotted, whether their shirt is tucked or untucked. Within a restricting institution, it’s a way (and perhaps the only way) for the adolescents to exude creative freedom and be themselves’.

Broadway World - **** Jess Ashley 

Director:  Paul Stacey

Movement Director: Chris Cuming

Lighting Designer: John Rainsforth

Sound Designer: Jamie Lu

Costume Supervisor: Becky Livermore

Scenic Construction: DSH Carpentry

Photographer: Harry Elletson