ESU Theatre presents William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to understanding and appreciating the performance of William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" as presented by the Emporia State University Theatre. This guide aims to enhance your experience of the play, whether you are attending a live performance or studying the text.

Step 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Play

• Read the Text: Before watching the performance, read through "Romeo and Juliet" to understand the plot, characters, and themes.
• Research the Context: Learn about the historical context of the play, including themes of love, fate, and conflict.
• Watch Summaries: Consider watching short summaries or analyses available online to grasp the main points quickly.

Step 2: Understand the Characters

• Key Characters: Focus on the main characters:
  • Romeo Montague
  • Juliet Capulet
  • Mercutio
  • Tybalt
  • Friar Laurence
• Character Relationships: Note how the relationships between these characters drive the plot and explore their motivations.

Step 3: Attend the Performance

• Location Details: The performance took place at the Karl C. Bruder Theatre, Emporia State University. If you're attending a similar event, check venue details.
• Arrive Early: Get to the venue early to find your seat and soak in the ambiance.
• Engage with the Experience: Be present during the performance, and try to immerse yourself in the emotions and actions of the characters.

Step 4: Reflect on the Themes

• Identify Major Themes: After watching, reflect on themes such as:
  • The dichotomy of love and hate
  • The role of fate and choice
  • Youth versus age
• Personal Connections: Think about how these themes relate to contemporary life or your personal experiences.

Step 5: Discuss and Analyze

• Join Discussions: Engage in discussions with peers or online forums about interpretations of the play.
• Write a Review: Consider writing a review or analysis of the performance, focusing on what resonated with you and how the production conveyed Shakespeare's messages.

Conclusion

Understanding "Romeo and Juliet" through a live performance can enhance your appreciation of Shakespeare's work. By familiarizing yourself with the text, characters, and themes, and by engaging with the performance both during and after, you will deepen your understanding. Consider attending more theatrical productions to broaden your perspective on literature and performance art.