Romeo & Juliet

Over the past few weeks, we have begun our study of Shakespeare and our in-class reading of Romeo and Juliet, which has been a true delight. We kicked things off with a viewing of West Side Story to frontload the basic plot and characters before tackling Shakespearean language. This Oscar winning musical won the hearts of many students, and I've even caught a few dancing in the halls or breaking into one of the many memorable songs from the show. 

Most 7th grade English classes these days take the shape of a theatrical reading, with students choosing parts as we move through the play and discuss characterization and larger themes.  Soon they will begin wrestling with the topics and tones of the play in both persuasive writing and a creative assignment that will ask them to create a soundtrack of ten songs (complete with album cover and liner notes) to reflect ten scenes they want to highlight in Romeo and Juliet. 

I've found two local opportunities for families to appreciate the language and story of this beautiful tragedy outside of class - one this month and one later in the summer - that you should know about. I hope some of you will take advantage of these amazing local resources!

May 20th:
Join Opera Theater of Connecticut on Saturday, May 20, 2017 at 7:00pm as we present the geniuses of Charles Gounod and William Shakespeare in this insightful and innovative blending of the music and verse inspired by the story of two star-crossed lovers “In fair Verona where we lay our scene” with singers and actors. Performed with professional singers and actors at The Andrews Memorial Theater, this exciting presentation is a “must see”!  http://www.operatheaterofct.org/shows/season2017/rnj17/

July 2017:

West Side Story
July 5th – July 30th, 2017
Based on a Conception of Jerome Robbins
With book by Arthur Laurents, Music by Leonard Bernstein, and Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, this classic musical about teen romance from the opposite side of town in 1950’s New York will make you cheer and make you cry. The Sharks and the Jets reunite for this powerful and gripping ode to Romeo and Juliet. Tonight, Tonight won’t be just any night!

http://www.ivorytonplayhouse.org/our-season/our-2017-season