If you go
› What: “Romeo and Juliet”› Where: Mars Theatre, 17 N. Chattanooga St., LaFayette, Ga.› When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 9-10 and 16-17; 2:30 p.m. Feb. 11 and 18› Admission: $12, $13 and $16› For more information: BAPshows.com
Back Alley Productions will open its 2018 season with William Shakespeare's great tragedy, "Romeo and Juliet."
Six performances are scheduled between Friday, Feb. 9, and Sunday, Feb. 18, at the Mars Theatre in LaFayette, Ga.
"Romeo and Juliet" is the tale of young lovers who defy their feuding families in order to be with each other, and the destructive and deadly results that occur when hatred is allowed to rule households.
Sarah Lapp and James Lanier play the title characters in Back Alley's production.
"Like many, 'Romeo and Juliet,' was my first introduction into Shakespeare during high school," director Kaylee Smith says. "It still brings back early memories of wanting the star-crossed lovers to get their happy ending. Like the audience, I always want to scream 'Wait, stop, do something different!' But Shakespeare doesn't spare our star-crossed lovers.
"I think Shakespeare was one of those rare artists who could communicate the human condition in a way that appeals to everyone," Smith explains. "Love makes people do crazy things, and hate within families and communities causes significant destruction."
Smith says she's been proud of this cast's ability to tap into the mind and work of the Bard to present this retelling.
"Don't worry about it being a tale written long ago, or the language," she encourages.
"Back Alley actors have been doing Shakespeare since 2013 and know how to make the audience become engaged in both dialogue and action. Trust us, you'll forget the fact it was written so long ago, and you'll follow along on the edge of your seat."
This play has a PG-13 rating for some violence, adult themes and suicide.
For more information: 706-621-2870.