Last updated 05:30, Friday, 18 July 2008

Romeo and Juliet, Say Two Theatre Company, Brougham HallThe Say Two Theatre Company don’t seem to do things in half measures and this production of Shakespeare’s classic tale of doomed love was no exception.

A cast of over 30, including many local thespians, enthralled a large audience and also, it seemed, the rain clouds overhead which appeared content to lurk rather than unleash some speciality Cumbrian weather.

Brougham Hall provided a perfect venue for this outdoor performance, allowing actors to appear from all angles, and Juliet to deliver the famous ‘Oh Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?” speech from a splendidly elevated position.

The large cast made for several spectacular musical numbers and elaborate dance routines which featured some guest backing vocals and guitar solos from well-known Shakespearean bands Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd.

The audience were also treated to numerous lively sword fights and scuffles as the feud between the squabbling Capulet and Montague families, central to the story, escalated gloriously.

We were promised action and it was delivered by the bucket-load.

Ryan Norse as Romeo and Rebecca Loudonsack as Juliet excelled and there were fine performances throughout.

The picnic-guzzling audience were left thrilled by this highly entertaining professional performance.

DOUGLAS STREAT