Classic setting for Romeo and Juliet

By Kath Gannaway
AN ACTION-PACKED fight sets the scene … and Shakespeare’s classic tale of forbidden love and ultimate tragedy unfolds among the vines.
Audiences are in for a memorable Shakespeare experience when Essential Theatre presents Romeo and Juliet at Balgownie Estate Vineyard Resort on 23 and 24 March as part of the Melba Festival.
Members of the nine-member cast visiting Balgownie last week were excited at the prospect of contributing to the three-day festival and performing against the magnificent backdrop of Yarra Valley vineyards and mountains.
The performances are part of a four-month tour during which the story of the star-crossed lovers will be enjoyed in wineries and vineyards across the country.
“You just can’t paint a backdrop like this in a theatre,” said Don Bridges who plays Friar Lawrence.
Amanda LaBonte who plays Lady Capulet said the group had found a special niche in open-air theatre among the vines.
“We use the natural light and the sunset as a backdrop,” she said. “The first year we did it we performed before 400 people and with the sun setting creating an amazing atmosphere, we wondered why we hadn’t done it before.”
Mr Bridges said part of the appeal of Romeo and Juliet was that it was both comedy and tragedy.
“We put a lot of energy into the comedy which builds and builds to the final tragedy,” he said.
“It is because we put so much energy into the comedy that it works so well.”
The first performance is a dinner/show event on Friday evening. The Saturday matinee is ideal for families and can also be followed by dinner in the Balgownie Estate restaurant.
To book, phone 9730 2669. For further information on the Melba Festival phone 5965 2559.