Classic Stage Theater

My experience at The Classic Stage Theater was a very good one. As soon as I walked in I thought the combination of the coffee shop and the theatre was very clever. The idea of getting a cup of coffee and then seeing a live show seems very relaxing. I also thought the layout of the stage created a very including effect to the play. I really enjoyed being so close to the actors. It made me feel like I was much more involved and attentive. The shape of the stage was also really great for both the actors and the viewers- not only does it bring in a unique vibe but I think it was more efficient for everyone. I felt like I could see a lot more on a round stage.

Also, all of the actors were very talented. Their exceeding animation and skill made the play much more emotional and enjoyable. They stayed in character literally every time they were open to the audience- there was never a moment when I saw one of them goof off and such. All of the actors portrayed their parts as if they really were those people in real life. I felt like all of it was very real and authentic the whole time. In addition all of the transitions were very smooth and the live music was a great touch to it.

And lastly, the production did a very good job of modernizing it without completely changing the story. Since live plays are so fast paced- I was worried that I would have trouble following. But the change of time period and slight edits in the script made it really clear and easy to understand. Overall I thought it was a very good play/experience! I would definitely go back if I could.

Romeo and Juliet

Romeo and Juliet has already introduced very innovative and interesting characters. They all have very pronounced personalities which I think really enhances the text. A huge problem I've come across in books are lifeless characters; it makes me feel like the story isn't genuine. A key element to a truly notable book is interesting characters. Shakespere has already shown that.

I think a very noteworthy character in Romeo and Juliet is Juliet. Juliet is very wise for her age. Her sense of self-control and sensibility is very charasmatic. She seems to know what she wants very clearly, without panicking. For example, when Lady Capulet suggests that Juliet gets to know/marry Paris, she simply tells her that she will try to but only for Lady Capulet, and anything further she'll do as she wishes. Juliet presents a sense of peace with every word.

I also see a little controversy to Juliet. I feel that under all of her wisdom and tranquility lies a very fiery and wild personality deep inside. I feel that her love for Romeo will spark a new aspect to her persona. I'm interested to see how it all unfolds!

Romeo and Juliet Act 1 Scene 1

Dear Sydney,

I think Romeo and Juliet is already becoming a pleasure to read. I really enjoy how unique it compared to the modern novel. The text is so thought out and advanced; it makes me stop and question the quality of the books I'm reading now. There is a sense of ease and authenticity in his writing that you don't usually see in most books. Shakepere is a very true and talented writer which I exceedingly appreciate.

I've noticed that even though the play is set in a very different time period, I can easily relate to the characters. Shakepere has already presented each of the characters with very defined personalities. I'm only about 30 pages into the book- and he's already shown the characters individuality/persona. Although it is very challenging writing, under all of the complexity is clarity. It's almost like a contradiction- which makes it more compelling.

I'm very interested to see how the characters and the plot develop!