Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ at Plainfield Town Hall

EAGLE TIMES STAFF
PLAINFIELD, NH — Amplified Arts, in partnership with the Maxfield Parrish Stage Set Committee, will present Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, “Romeo & Juliet,” on the breathtaking Maxfield Parrish stage set at the Plainfield Townhall as part of AMP’s 9th season of quality, intimate and creative live theater. The show has performances Dec. 8-10.

Using an adaptation of Shakespeare’s text by Azalea Hudson, AMP founding member and recent Theatre & Victorian Studies graduate of Bard College, and under the direction of Shelly Hudson, Amplified Arts founder and artistic director, AMP artists will shift the focus from the love at first sight trope to the story of a young woman with no other choice to avoid an arranged marriage but to pursue the son of her family’s enemy and to what lengths she goes to avoid her family’s chosen fate.

The production design, inspired by the Art Nouveau movement and the art of Maxfield Parrish, dives into costumes inspired by Edwardian period dress and Victorian fancy dress parties while leaning into the set design by Maxfield Parrish with added elements from AMP’s creative team. Unlike conventional stage sets of its era, Parrish’s creation is distinguished by its portrayal of a local scene; the majestic Mount Ascutney offers a unique and authentic backdrop to the unfolding tragedy.

Its preservation in its original form, complete with the initial rigging and lighting, is a testament to the rarity of such a historical theater setting. Crafted in 1916, this national art treasure continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm.

Join this extraordinary event at the Plainfield Village Town Hall, 1079 Route 12A, Plainfield, NH on Dec. 8 and 9 at 7 p.m., or on Dec. 10 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $20 for general admission, $15 over 60, and $10 under 18 years old. Tickets can be purchased through the Amplified Arts website at amplifiedartsnh.com and at the door while tickets last. A portion of the proceeds from the ticket sales will benefit the Maxfield Parrish Stage Set Fund.