Short Shakespeare! Romeo and Juliet Reviews

Chicago Tribune - Not Recommended

"...In condensing the play to 75 minutes for Chicago Shakespeare Theater's "Short Shakespeare!" series, director Amanda Dehnert has managed to suck all the heat out of the play. And what's the point of "Romeo and Juliet" without palpable hormonal lust? The "Short Shakespeare!" series is designed specifically with high schoolers in mind, and they won't be fooled when matters of the heart are given short shrift."

ChicagoCritic - Recommended

"...Filled with funny moments, wild sword fights, Dehnert’s Romeo & Juliet captures the essence and spirit of The Bard’s story without many of the wordy passages. This works nicely as a premier for students to be emerged into Shakespeare’s language. Teens will relate to the romance that finds Romeo and Juliet choosing to follow their passions despite the clan hatred that seem so arbitrary. I can’t think of a finer show to introduce theatre to teens."

Chicago Stage and Screen - Highly Recommended

"...Chicago Shakespeare Theater's 75-minute abridged production of "Romeo and Juliet" was one of the most engaging plays I have seen to date. Shakespeare is not always the most understood or inviting of productions for some people to see. I was one of those people, that is until I saw this production at Chicago Shakespeare, who wanted to avoid his writings as well as plays at all costs! Don't be afraid or turned off by this creative interpretation, it's is truly amazing and entertaining at the same time that when it was finished, I didn't want it to end!"