Arts in Chicago - "Romeo and Juliet" at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Chicago Shakespeare Theater stages Shakespeare's timeless classic "Romeo and Juliet" directed by Mark Lamos. The story about star crossed lovers destined to want what their families would never allow. The Montague and Capulet families are locked in a feud that stems from some unmentioned past event; no backstory is provided regarding the nature of this rivalry, likening it to the senseless hostility that plagues mankind to this very day. Of course we all know of the story of the great love that Romeo and Juliet have, a love that they hope can bring about peace between both sides. The lead roles, played by Carman Lactiva as Romeo and Julia Coffey as Juliet, are exceptional; each play their roles with an honest intensity as if their innermost feelings were opened up for us to see. We also witness a fantastic transformation in both, Carman from a boy pining for an unrequited love into a man willing to cross any obstacle to be with his love and Coffer from a young girl reminiscing of her childhood into a woman who would do anything in the name of love. Though some might say the love of Romeo and Juliet is born of naiveté one can't help but admire such a leap of faith in the infinite possibility of love, the hope that what the heart holds dear can overcome any adversity. Runs 2-Apr, 2005 through 19-Jun, 2005. Highly recommended. 4.5 Stars ****1/2.