The Melbourne Shakespeare Company is bringing a bold new twist to Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Set against the lush greenery of Central Park in Malvern East, this outdoor production promises to whisk audiences away to the intrigue-filled streets of 1940s Vienna, where forbidden love, family feuds, and a touch of comedy collide.
Directed by Emma Austin, whose five-star Much Ado About Nothing wowed crowds in 2024, this 90-minute whirlwind reimagines the classic tale with a live acoustic soundtrack of reimagined pop classics, courtesy of Musical Director Natalie Calia.
“Romeo and Juliet is more than a tragedy—it’s a celebration of passion, hope, and the complexities of love,” says Austin.
“We’ve crafted a vibrant world where Shakespeare’s words collide with contemporary music and heartfelt storytelling to create an experience audiences will never forget.”
The cast includes Marlena Thomson (The Roof is Caving In) as Juliet, Oliver Tapp (Midnight Carousel) as Romeo, and acclaimed performers John Voce (Dr. Who, Downton Abbey) as Capulet, Lyndall Grant (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Don Quixote) as Montague, and audience favourite Karlis Zaid (My Fair Lady) as the Friar.
True to their commitment to sustainability, the production’s costumes and sets are crafted entirely from reclaimed and recycled materials, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Audiences are encouraged to make the evening their own—pack a picnic, pour your favourite drink, or curate a platter that even the Capulets would envy. With romance, drama, and a dash of humour, this is one Shakespearean experience you won’t want to miss.
Romeo and Juliet runs from 28 February to 16 March at Central Park, Malvern. Tickets are on sale now.
