Star-Crossed and Speedy

From respectful, traditional stage performances to Baz Luhrmann's "hip" modernization, Romeo + Juliet, to the violent gross-out parody Tromeo & Juliet, Shakespeare's tragic tale of "star-cross'd lovers" has been adapted so many times that it seems unlikely that yet another performance of the play could add anything to it. So...

By Jesse Hughey

August 13, 2009

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From respectful, traditional stage performances to Baz Luhrmann's "hip" modernization, Romeo + Juliet, to the violent gross-out parody Tromeo & Juliet, Shakespeare's tragic tale of "star-cross'd lovers" has been adapted so many times that it seems unlikely that yet another performance of the play could add anything to it. So how about subtracting something from it—the boring stuff? That's the idea behind the Dallas Hub Theater's use of a version "streamlined" by David Hundsness, which lets the actors speed through parts that may drag for modern audiences without cutting the bloodshed. I just wish he'd add some fart jokes, boobs (Franco Zeffirelli's 1968 version was always my fave) and a three-way with the nurse. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and 8:15 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through August 22 the Dallas Hub Theater, 2809 Canton St. Visit dallashubtheater.org or call 214-749-7010.
Saturdays, Sundays, 8:15 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 2, 2:30 p.m.; Thu., Aug. 6, 7:30 p.m. Starts: Aug. 1. Continues through Aug. 22, 2009

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