Romeo & Juliet

Recently I had the opportunity to attend the Romeo & Juliet ballet at the wonderful Fox Theatre. It was a great experience. I had previously attended a couple of other plays but nothing quite like this. After all this one is a classic based on world renowned literature.

The performance itself was artful, beautiful, and appeared effortless.  There was nothing less than top notch talent on the stage.  These things were obvious observations; however in regards to the storyline itself, I was a little absentminded, baffled, and confused (note to self and friends- next time review the storyline before showtime).  Admittedly so, I was a little lost on a few scenes in the First Act; but luckily I recalled a few major turning points as the story progressed and during intermission noted the cliff notes in the program to follow along so the Second Act was much more informative and enjoyable.

I will also admit that Romeo and Juliet isn't my favorite love story or preferred piece of  Shakespearian literature (Othello stole my heart). But I have always thought the story itself was powerful; one of true love and poor circumstance.

However, as I watched, and perhaps it was the all white costumes or the continual silence as nothing but emotion through action and music played out; but I thought this epic love story was truly a gruesome tragedy. And moreover pondered how many school curriculums still included. I mean in a world and time of cyber-bullying and public shaming is this book still appropriate; can today's teens truly handle and conceptualize its content.

I wondered why today I felt so moved. Perhaps as a teen myself I overlooked the tragedy for what it is. Or perhaps because there was an active leader, the teacher, to guide the reading and assist with proper processing of the events that took place. Or maybe I just thought I was immune to feeling a love so strong that to not have them at all is worse than living.

Have you ever loved someone so deeply? Have they loved you back the same? Do you know of anyone who falls into these categories? I only know of Prim and Peta, were the odds in their favor...