Humor Prevails in Sean Holmes’ Unique Take on Romeo and Juliet

London, England — Sean Holmes, associate director at Shakespeare’s Globe, is known for his comedic interpretations of classical works. His latest production, a lively adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, continues this trend, merging humor with one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies.

Holmes’ take departs from his previous comedies, such as The Comedy of Errors and Much Ado About Nothing. Instead, he explores the complexities of love and revelry interlaced with tragedy. The first act revels in joy, capturing the excitement of young love, while the second act struggles to maintain that energy amid life-altering events.

“I am slain,” Paris, played by Joe Reynolds, humorously declares after being shot, which is a moment that should evoke sympathy but instead garners laughter. Similarly, Mercutio, portrayed by Michael Elcock, oscillates between a lively presence and despair. This inconsistency in tone occasionally detracts from the gravity of the narrative.

As Juliet, Lola Shalam shares a compelling chemistry with Rawaed Asde’s Romeo, emphasizing the stark contrasts between the Montagues and Capulets portrayed through expressive body movements choreographed by Tamsin Hurtado Clarke. Yet, the humor from the vibrant first act dulls the impact of tragic moments later in the play.

The production, cleverly framed as a Western, includes entertaining musical elements, with a rousing performance during the ball where Romeo meets Juliet. The country vibe adds a quirky twist to the classic tale, reflecting the humor deeply rooted within the characters’ initial interactions.

Despite its charm, Holmes’ adaptation fails to fully balance the comedic elements with the tragic undertones of the storyline. Observers found themselves laughing even during key moments of pain and loss, signaling a missed opportunity for deeper emotional engagement.

As the show continues through August 2 at the Globe, it offers a range of accessibility options including captioned and audio-described performances, ensuring that broader audiences can experience this unique interpretation.

“I was left hoping for one moment where tragedy would gain more strength,” a spectator commented, highlighting the challenges of conveying the seriousness of the situation amidst the humor. While many viewers celebrate the entertaining aspects, the essence of the tragedy in Romeo and Juliet feels overshadowed.