SECONDARY AGES 12 – 18 - English Through Drama · PDF fileSECONDARY AGES 12 – 18 ... to sound more polite. Remember that 'Do you mind ... Ted's flight from Amsterdam took.....

SECONDARY AGES 12 – 18

Teachers' Course 7: “Romeo and Juliet”

From the start immerse the students in speakingEnglish.

Only if necessary allow them to use a little of theirown language.

In this course you have a choice of helping yourstudents to produce:

A Stage Play, which your students can enjoyperforming with their class and friends and show totheir families.

An Audio Play, which your students can keep as a record for themselves, their families and friends and which they can review

Or you can do both

This Course also contains conventional Englishteaching

Objectives:

The teacher should help the students:

For either Stage or audio production:

Perform a stage or an audio play of "Romeo andJuliet" - or both!

Teach them how to lift their voices from a scriptand/or to learn their parts.

Teach them how to listen to and respond to each other.

Teach them how to respond to direction.

Give the students confidence in acting and speaking English.

Prepare them to start thinking about writing their own script.

Help them prepare sound effects and music.

Have fun!

For the Stage Production

Encourage them to create the backdrops for the Stageproduction

Help them to prepare the props.

Help them with costumes.

Romeo and Juliet has 18 male parts, but many of these can be doubled. There are four female parts; but girls can play male parts.

There are also non speaking parts such as Prince Escalus's soldiers and the dancers at the Capulets' party.

For the Audio Production

Teach them how to use a microphone.

Help them with recording and post production.

For conventional English learning (which will also relate to the play)

Polite requests and offers: I'd like ... Could I have? ... Would you like?

� How much/many? A lot of/ much/ many.� Can/can't for possibility.� Must/mustn't for obligation.� Should/shouldn't for advice.

Materials Required: Microphone, Audio software on laptop, Audio player, flashcards.

Warm up Song.

First I Feel Pretty a song for the girls, but the boys can join in. Everybody can dance to it.

This song and the next are from the musical West Side Story, which is based on Romeo and Juliet, but set in the West Side of New York in the 1960's. In the film and stage production Romeo is called Tony and Juliet is called Maria, who sings this song:

feel pretty Oh so pretty I feel pretty and witty and gay And I pity Any girl who isn't me today I feel charming Oh so charming It's alarming how charming I feel And so pretty That I hardly can believe I'm real See the pretty girl in that mirror there? Who can that attractive girl be? Such a pretty face Such a pretty dress Such a pretty smile Such a pretty me! I feel stunning And entrancing

Feel like running And dancing for joy For I'm loved By a pretty wonderful boy I feel pretty

While for the boys Tony (Romeo) sings about Maria (Juliet), with whom he has fallen in love.

I feel pretty

The most beautiful sound I ever heard (Maria, Maria, Maria) All the beautiful sounds of the world in a single word (Maria, Maria, Maria, Maria Maria

Maria, Maria) a Maria! I just met a girl named Maria And suddenly that name Will never be the same To me Maria I just kissed a girl named Maria And suddenly I found How wonderful a sound Can be Maria Say it loud and there's music playing Say it soft and it's almost like praying Maria, I'll never stop saying Maria Maria, Maria, Maria, Maria, Maria, Maria, Maria, Maria, Maria Say it loud and there's music playing Say it soft and it's almost like praying Maria I'll never stop saying Maria The most beautiful sound I ever heard Maria

For homework the students can rehearse these songs with their parents.If they play a musical instrument they can have fun accompanying the song. They can record and bring their recordings to school.If they are adventurous they can compose and perform their own songs and accompaniments for the lyrics. They can record and bring these to school.

Guitar Bass Guitar Percussion

Piano Trombone Saxophone Clarinet

ROMEO AND JULIET GAME

Give a card of the following to each of the students. Let them do their best to remember in their own words what is on their card. Then let them find another student with the same color card and let them describe their character to each other.

Preparation for the Stage production - get the students to help you. Suggest they involve their families and ask them to help

� Prepare the backdrops (see script below).�� Prepare the props (see script below).�� Prepare the costumes - start by drawing them and then putting them together. �� Prepare the sound effects (e.g unsheathing swords, footsteps on cobbles).�� Record with the students using audio recording equipment.�� Find online, create within the production or vocalize or use sound effect

here.�� Prepare any music. Your students can find excerpts from Tchaikovsky's

Romeo and Juliet Overture (see script) or they can find online at http://www.englishwordplay.com/composers.html or use some film music from http://www.hitfix.com/in-contention/star-wars-ben-hur-lord-of-the-rings-the-25-best-oscar-winning-film-scores-of-all-time such as the theme from The Red Violin, which has some excellent suspenseful music towards the end, or Limelight opposite.

Preparation for the Audio production - Actors and Directors.

� Tell your students not to be frightened of the microphone.�� The best way to do this is for them to treat it as the ear of their best friend or loved one

or enemy.

Limelight

The Red Violin

� Get them to challenge, tease, be friendly, frighten, share a joke, praise or do whatever is appropriate to the scene.

�� Knowing what not to say to the actors is as important as knowing what to say. Try to

keep your notes to a minimum. Leave 'space' for the actors to be creative. �� Get your students to know their characters as broadly and as profoundly as they

possibly can.�� Tell them not to open their mouths until their thoughts and feelings are truthful. �� The microphone is a lie detector. It will not be cheated.

Preparation for Conventional Learning .

� There are many different ways of making polite requests in English. If you don't want to sound rude requests are usually made in the form of questions

Asking Saying Yes Saying No

Can I? Yes, sureYes, certainly

Well I'm afraid + reason

Could I...?Could I possibly...?Is it all right if I...?Do you think I could...?

Yes, of course.Yes, that's fine.Certainly.

Well, the problem is...

Do you mind if I...? No, not at all.No, of course not

Sorry, but ...

� Asking others to do things – making requests.

Asking Saying Yes Saying No

Can you? Yes, sure We

Could you...?Is it all right if you...?Do you think you could...?Will you...?Would you...?

Yes, of course.Certainly.

Well, the problem isSorry, but...

Do you mind -ing...?Would you mind -ing...?

No, not at all.Of course not.

I'm sorry I cannot, because + reason

� Use 'Would you mind if I...? Could I possibly...? Could you possibly...? Do you think you could...? to sound more polite.

�� Remember that 'Do you mind...?' and 'Would you mind...?' mean 'Is it a problem for

you?' so the polite answer when we 'say yes' is 'No'.

� Much", "many", and "a lot of" indicate a large quantity of something, for example "I have a lot of friends " means I have a large quantity of friends.

� Much with uncountable nouns. (money, bread, water...) Example: How much money/bread/water...is there? How much is Juliet in love?

�� Many with countable nouns. (students, desks, windows..

Example: How many students/teachers/desks... are there? How many times times has Romeo fallen in love?

�� Get the students to fill in can or can't:�

1. The nurse ....... run, but she ...... walk2. Tybalt ..... forgive Romeo, he is too angry.3. Benvolio loves peace, but he .... stop the Montagues and Capulets fighting.4. No,I'm sorry you have this knife. It's too dangerous . 5. She can't write but she ... read ! 6. He ...... watch that cartoon on TV. It's only available on DVD's. 7. Yes,of course you ...... have a glass of water . 8. No , I ...... hear you . Speak up, please.

� Using "Must" and “Mustn't” in Present, Past, and Future. Study the chart below to learn how "must" and “should” behave in different contexts.

Modal UsePositive Forms1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future

Negative Forms1. = Present 2. = Past 3. = Future

You can also use:

must CERTAINTY

1. That must be Friar Lawrence. They said he was a priest.2. That must have been the right restaurant. There are no other restaurants on this street.3. NO FUTURE FORM

1. That mustn't be Jerry. She is supposed to be fat.2. That mustn't have been the right restaurant. I guess there is another one around here somewhere.3. NO FUTURE FORM

have to

mustn't PROHIBITION

You mustn't swim fight in the streets any longer or you will be put to death.You must not forget to take your malaria medication while your are in the tropics.PROHIBITION USUALLY REFER TO THE NEAR FUTURE.

must STRONG RECOMMEND

ATION

1. You must take some time off and get some rest.2. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" You should have taken some time off last week to get some

1. You mustn't drink so much. It's not good for your health.2. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" You shouldn't have drunk so much. That caused the accident.

should

rest. 3. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" You should take some time off next week to get some rest.

3. SHIFT TO "SHOULD" You shouldn't drink at the party. You are going to be the designated driver.

must NECESSITY

1. You must have a permit to enter the national park.2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" We had to have a permit to enter the park.3. We must get a permit to enter the park next week.

1. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" We don't have to get a permit to enter the national park.2. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" We didn't have to get a permit to enter the national park.3. SHIFT TO "HAVE TO" We won't have to get a permit to enter the national park.

have to

� "Mustn't" vs. "Do not have to""Mustn't" suggests that you are prohibited from doing something. "Do not have to" suggests that someone is not required to do something. Examples:

� You mustn't eat that. IT IS FORBIDDEN, IT IS NOT ALLOWED. � You don't have to eat that. YOU CAN IF YOU WANT TO, BUT IT IS NOT NECESSARY.�� Exercise. Fill the gaps with can, could, have to, must, mustn't, might or should.�1. Ted's flight from Amsterdam took more than 11 hours. He ........... be exhausted after

such a long flight. He ........ prefer to stay in tonight and get some rest.

2. If you want to get a better feeling for how the city is laid out, you ....... walk downtown and explore the waterfront.

3. Hiking the trail to the peak ..... be dangerous if you are not well prepared for dramatic weather changes. You ...... research the route a little more before you attempt the ascent.

4. When you have a small child in the house, you ...... leave small objects lying around. Such objects ...... be swallowed, causing serious injury or even death.

5. Dave: ..... you hold your breath for more than a minute?Nathan: No, I can't.

6. Jenny's engagement ring is enormous! It ..... have cost a fortune.

7. Please make sure to water my plants while I am gone. If they don't get enough water, they ..... die.

8. I ..... speak Arabic fluently when I was a child and we lived in Egypt. But after we moved back to Canada, I had very little exposure to the language and forgot almost everything I knew as a child. Now, I .... just say a few things in the language.

Presentation� The Teacher explains that in this course they will have fun making drama.�� Through drama they will learn English without effort.�

� Also they will absorb a feeling for how to tell a story.�� The students will act.�� They will work as a team.�� Now read both the stage and the audio versions with them.�� Discuss which version they would like to produce and perform.�� There are 22 parts: 18 male (but many have only one short speech and can be doubled)

and 4 female parts in both the stage and the audio plays. �� In the the stage version there are also many non speaking parts: dances and Prince

Escalus's soldiers.�� Discuss which part the students would like to play.

� Some of the characters in the stage version can double as stage hands.�� Some students might like to create the music.�� Others might like to create the sound effects. (Note: Sound effects help to create

pictures in the listener's mind. As in Shakespeare's plays most of the pictures are created by language there are very few sound effects in Romeo and Juliet.)

�� Ask them which version, the stage or the audio, they would like to produce and perform.

Explain what is involved.�� Explain that their family and friends will be able to come to the production (stage) or

read and hear (audio) what you have done.�� Also their families and friends can help them prepare for the productions.� Later they can write some new endings to the play.

� But first let's listen to the Phonics advice. Listen to and get the students to practice saying the words: insult. Montagues, swords, thumb, cowardly, thrust, drawn, crutch, rebellious subjects, approached, injured, Rosaline, Mercutio, request, burdensome, rough, trouble, marriage, handsome.

� Key pronunciation. Listen to stage pronunciation recording. Let the students listen to stress and intonation. Play and pause. Let them repeat the speeches.

� Help the students to use the internet to research some background to the play:

phonics

William Shakespeare 1564 - 1616

William Shakespeare Probably his birthplace, Stratford on Avon

Replica of the Globe Theatre, London

The inside of the Globe Theatre.

Procession of Characters from Shakespeare's Plays by an unknown artist

Many consider Shakespeare to be the world's greatest writer. He was born and educated in Stratford on Avon in the English Midlands, but spent most of his working life in London He was a poet, playwright and actor. For homework encourage your students to research the answers to these questions.

� About how many plays did he write and how many sonnets?See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Shakespearehttp://absoluteshakespeare.com/http://www.biography.com/people/william-shakespeare-9480323 and see the videos about him.

� What was the name of his wife?�� About how many million results does a google search for

Shakespeare return?

� About how many English words did he invent? � � Name at least 20.�� About how many biographies have been written about him?�� Name at least ten of his plays, including tragedies, comedies and

historical plays.

� Write three or more sentence synopses of at least four of his plays.

� Who was the Queen and then who was the King on the English throne during his lifetime?

� What was the first theatre in London to be built by actors for actors?

� Give the first line of 5 of Shakespeare's sonnets. See and listen to: http://www.englishwordplay.com/sonnets.html

�� Was Romeo and Juliet based on a true story?

Italy

Due to its shape, (see map below), Italy is often referred to as lo Stivale (the Boot).. With 61 million inhabitants, it is the 5th most populous country in Europe (after Russia, Germany, United Kingdom and France).

Coliseum in Ancient Rome

Bologna's old city centre

The Divine Comedy Venice with gondolas

Marco Polo The Mona Lisa The Creation of Adam (detail)

Jesus Christ and Saint Peter

Galileo The Santa Maria Giuseppe Verdi Benito Mussolini

Emblem of the Papacy Ferrari Gucci handbag The Duomo, Florence

By now your students should be able to find websites yourselves to answer the following questions and do the exercises. They can do this with their families and friends.

� What is the capital of Italy?�� Two thousand years ago which was the

largest empire in the world?�� Which is the oldest university in the

world?�� Name at least five Italian city states.�� What did Dante do? Mention his most

famous work.�� Where did Marco Polo travel to?�� What did Leonardo da Vinci do?

Mention at least three of his most famous works.

�� What did Michelangelo do? Mention at least three of his most famous works.�� Who was the first Pope?�� How many Popes have there been?

� What did Galileo discover?�� What did Columbus discover?�� Who was Cosimo de Medici? �� Mention at least two Italian opera composers.�� Who was the prime minister when Italy entered the Second World War.�� Mention at least two Italian luxury cars.�� Mention at least two Italian football teams.�� Mention at least two Italian fashion houses.

New York City.It is called New York City to distinguish it from New York State. It is the most populous city in the USA with a metropolitan area population of about 20 million. It is a centre of commerce, finance, media, art, fashion, research, technology, education, and entertainment.

Old New York New York today Statue of Liberty Twin Towers

Let your students find websites themselves to answer the following questions and do the exercises.

� What did the Dutch call New York?�� How many languages are spoken in New York?�� What was the first city in the USA to have skyscrapers?�� Who designed the Statue of Liberty?�� What major river meets the sea at New York?�� Which future King of England was New York named after?�� Exercise: Write at least three sentences about slavery in New York.�� How many people died as a result of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Centre?�� Exercise: Write at least three sentences about the attack.

� Exercise: Write at least three sentences about the attractions of Central Park.�� Exercise: Write at least three sentences about what happens in Silicon Alley.�� Exercise: Write at least three sentences about why New York is sometimes called the

cultural capital of the world.

Films

There are at least 40 film and TV adaptations of Rome and Juliet.

To help with your students' research and their English encourage them and their families and friends to acquire and look at these films

Romeo and Juliet (1968) directed by Franco Zeffirelli, an excellent film in which the poetry is beautifully and accurately spoken . See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FHpmn-KYec

Romeo and Juliet (1996) a modernized version directed by Baz Luhrmann, set in California in which the Montagues and Capulets are rival Mafia gangs. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sMel13nY0PE

West Side Story (1961) the award winning musical based on Romeo and Juliet and set in New York. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yA_aFprGzyc

Shakespeare in Love, young Shakespeare, out of ideas and short of money, meets his ideal woman and is inspired to write Romeo and Juliet. See https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CxNF4eA6yw

Practice

� Get the students to write at least two sentences each about Benvolio, Romeo, Tybalt, Nurse, Capulet, Lady Capulet, Juliet, Friar Lawrence, Mercutio, Paris.

� Then let them read these sentences to the rest of the class and get the class to say "true" or "false".

�� You can find the text of the original play of Romeo and Juliet

at http://shakespeare.mit.edu/romeo_juliet/full.htmlThis may help you to help the students with more to say about these character

� Ask questions of the different groups about the drama and find out which group can answer the most questions about "Romeo and Juliet":

�1. In what town and country does the play begin?

2. What two families were enemies?

3. In what year was the play first published?See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romeo_and_Juliet

4. What was an insult in Verona at that time?

5. Is Romeo and Juliet a tragedy or a comedy?

6. Which famous Italian poet, before Shakespeare's time, mentioned the Montagues and Capulets?

7. Who tried to stop the first fight in the streets of Verona?

8. Who tried to stop the second fight in the streets of Verona?

9. What was the name of the Prince?

10. Who performs Romeo and Juliet's marriage?

11. Who kills Mercutio?

12. Who persuades Romeo to attend the Capulet's party?

13. With whom is Romeo madly in love at the beginning of the play?

14. Why does Tybalt challenge Romeo to a duel?

� For Stage help and encourage the students to paint and design backdrops or construct scenery for the street scene in Verona, the Capulet's palace, Juliet's balcony, Friar Lawrence's church.

�� Help and encourage them to find the props. Suggest they

ask their families to help.�� Get the actors/stage hands to practice moving the backdrops and props.�� Help them to prepare the music and the sound effects.�� Let them practice playing the music in and fading it out.�� Help and encourage them to design and create costumes.

� While they are doing the above they can learn and practice their lines.

�� In the stage version tell them to think about where the

audience will be and always face the audience as much � as they can.

� For Audio the teacher should encourage the students to think about the use of music by asking them the following questions:

�

1. What is a good way to end a scene and set the mood for the next scene?

2. The answer can be music. This can also be helpful in stage productions particularly while stage hands are moving backdrops, props and furniture.

3. Audio drama consists of speech, sound effects and music. How would the student list these components in order of importance?

4. Audio drama music can be happy or sad. What other emotions can music express? Ask the students to think of at least five more emotions.

5. Usually songs do not work well as a background to speech as they can make it difficult to concentrate on the speech. What sort of music works better?

6. Would classical music and film and TV music provide wide emotional range and many moods.? Do the students have any other suggestion?

7. How would your students prevent the music 'drowning' the narration and dialogue?

8. A good way to emphasize a line of dialogue is to insert a sting, a single long note or a riff, a short repeated phrase of a few notes. The Red Violin film score contains some good examples.

Can the students suggest where they might include stings or riffs in the “Romeo andJuliet scripts for both stage and audio?

Production

� Let the students tell you the story of "Romeo and Juliet" in their own words.�� Then get them to write - if possible for homework - a synopsis in their own words of the

stage or audio script.

� Rehearse the play.�� Perform the stage and/or audio play.� � If you have the equipment and technicians and the extra time involved, audio record the

play.�� And/or Video the stage rehearsal and performance.�� It will be very important for the students to see and hear what they have achieved. Praise

them but also help and encourage them to do even better next time. (See at the bottom other plays they can perform.

�� Tell them not to be frightened to make mistakes. Mistakes are a useful learning process.

Phonics

There will be phonics advice on the underlined words in the script. Refer to this audio file:

STAGE PLAYRomeo and Juliet

by William Shakespeareadapted and simplified for the stage by Shaun MacLoughlin

Reading of Phonics of Romeo and Juliet Romeo and Juliet

Characters Costumes Backgrounds Props Music and Sound effects

Benvolioon the side of the Montagues.

Street scene Verona

Swords

Romeo and Juliet Overture by Tchaikovsky

Capulet, the leader of the family, enemy to the Montagues, father of Juliet

Capulet Palace

Masks Footsteps on cobbles

Lady Capulet, mother of Juliet. She was married at Juliet's age

Juliet's balcony

Large potted plants. May be small trees

Unsheathing swords

Montague, head of the family, enemy to the Capulets

Friar Lawrence church

A wall which Romeo can climb

Swords falling to ground

Lady Montague, the mother of Romeo

Orchard at night

A balcony for Juliet to stand on and Romeo to climb

Nurses footsteps approaching up staircase

Romeo More Characters The back of the balcony could be part of the church

Medieval Music - Three Basse Dance

Juliet Gregory Hooting of owl

Paris, who is Capulet's choice of husband for Juliet

Sampson

Church music. Gregorian chant

Nurse. She has looked after Juliet since she was a child.

Abraham

Friar Lawrence, confessor to both Romeo and Juliet. He belongs to the order of monks founded by Francis of Assisi.

Balthasar

Tybalt Cousin Capuletcan be doubled with other parts

Prince Escalus Crowd 1, 2. 3, 4, 5 can be doubled with other parts

Cousin Capuletcan be doubled with other parts

2 servants

Prince's Soldiers Dancers and Prince's soldiers

ACT 1. SCENE 1

SAMPSON:

GREGORY:

SAMPSON:

GREGORY:

SAMPSON:

A STREET IN VERONATWO MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY OF CAPULET ENTER. THEY CARRY SWORDS.

I will not fight. But nobody should insult me. If we meet any Montagues, they should be quiet.

Or what will you do?

I'll kill them.

All of them?

Yes. If they are Montagues, everyone of them.

GREGORY: Will you kill their women too?

SAMPSON: I'll kill their men with swords and their women with smiles.

(WE HEAR APPROACHING FOOTSTEPS ON COBBLES)

GREGORY: Here come two of the house of Montague. Draw your sword.

(GREGORY UNSHEATHES HIS SWORD)

SAMPSON: My naked weapon is out. Quarrel, and I will back you.

GREGORY:

(ABRAHAM AND BALTHASAR, MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY OF MONTAGUE ENTER)

Let us keep the law on our side. Let them begin.

SAMPSON:

ABRAHAM:

SAMPSON:

ABRAHAM:

I will bite my thumb at them. They will take that as an insult.

(NOTE: IN SHAKESPEARE'S DAY TO BITE YOUR THUMB AT SOMEONE WAS TO IMPLY THAT THEY WERE GAY)

Do you bite your thumb at us, sir?

I do bite my thumb, sir.

Do you bite your thumb at us, sir?

SAMPSON: No, sir, I do not bite my thumb at you, sir, but I bite my thumb, sir.

BALTHASAR: Just like a Capulet!

SAMPSON: What do you mean?

BALTHASAR: Insulting someone and then too cowardly to admit it.

SAMPSON:

(SAMPSON UNSHEATHES HIS SWORD)

Draw if you be men!

(BALTHASAR AND ABRAHAM DRAW THEIR SWORDS)

Gregory, remember you deadly thrust!

(ALL FOUR BEGIN TO FIGHT. THEIR SWORDS CLASH.)

BENVOLIO:

BENVOLIO:

(BENVOLIO ENTERS, RUNNING TOWARDS THEM)

Part fools! Put down your swords!

(HE ARRIVES AND WITH HIS SWORD BEATS DOWN THEIR SWORDS WHICH FALL ONTO THE GROUND)

You know not what you do!

(TYBALT ENTERS)

TYBALT: (RUNNING FORWARD, OUT OF BREATH) So Benvolio, you have drawn your sword against my friends!

BENVOLIO: I am trying to keep the peace.

TYBALT: You talk of peace with your sword drawn?! Turn and meet your death!

BENVOLIO: Help me to part these men.

TYBALT: (LUNGING FORWARD) Have at you coward!!

(CLASH OF SWORDS. SHOUTING CROWDS ARRIVE)

CROWD 1:

CROWD 2:

CROWD 3:

CROWD 4:

CROWD 5:

CAPULET:

(SHOUTING) Strike him!

Kill him!

Beat them down!

Down with the Capulets!

Down with the Montagues!

(OLD CAPULET AND LADY CAPULET ENTER)

What noise is this? Give me my long sword!

LADY CAPULET: Sword? You need a crutch, not a sword.

MONTAGUE:

OLD MONTAGUE AND LADY MONTAGUE ENTER

(APPROACHING) You villain, Capulet. Let me at him.

LADY MONTAGUE: How can you fight? You can barely walk.

(PRINCE ESCALUS ENTERS WITH HIS SOLDIERS )

PRINCE ESCALUS: (APPROACHING) Rebellious subjects, enemies to peace, throw your weapons to the ground.

(TYBALT AND BENVOLIO DROP THEIR SWORDS TO THE GROUND)

BENVOLIO AND TYBALT:

Sire.

PRINCE ESCALUS Three times you have disturbed the peace of Verona. Old Capulet, and Montague, this is your fault. If you disturb our streets again, your lives shall pay for it. Do you understand?

CAPULET Yes, Sire.

MONTAGUE: Yes, Sire.

PRINCE ESCALUS Return to your homes.

MUSIC BRIDGE. TYBALT, SAMPSON, GREGORY, ABRAHAM AND BALTHASAR TAKE UP THEIR SWORDS AND LEAVE THE STAGE. THEY ARE FOLLOWED BY CAPULET AND LADY CAPULET AND FINALLY BY THE PRINCE AND HIS SOLDIERS. FADE MUSIC

LADY MONTAGUE:

BENVOLIO:

LADY MONTAGUE:

MONTAGUE

BENVOLIO:

I am glad my Romeo wasn't in this fight.Benvolio, have you seen him today?

I saw him this morning, my Lady, lying on the garden wall. He looked so sad.

Oh my poor Romeo!

Do you know why he looked so sad?

No, my Lord. When I approached him he ran away.

(ROMEO APPEARS STAGE RIGHT)

See, here he comes now. Shall I speak to him?

MONTAGUE: Yes, Benvolio, please do.

LADY MONTAGUE: Thank you, Benvolio.

(MONTAGUE AND LADY MONTAGUE LEAVE STAGE LEFT)

BENVOLIO: Good morning, cousin.

ROMEO: Is it still morning?

BENVOLIO: It is only nine o'clock.

ROMEO: Sad hours pass slowly.

BENVOLIO: Are you in love?

ROMEO: Out.

BENVOLIO: I don't understand.

ROMEO: The one I love, does not love me. Therefore I am out of love.

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

(LAUGHS)

Don't laugh at me.

No, no.... It's just that.

Forgive me. I haven't slept in a day, because I've been thinking so much. I didn't even notice that you've been injured.

It's nothing. Just the usual fight with the Capulets.

I should have been with you. Perhaps one of the Capulets would have stabbed me, and put me out of my misery.

You aren't serious!

(ROMEO SIGHS)

I hate to see you like this.

ROMEO GRABS BENVOLIO

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

(SHOUTS) Hate? Hate to see me in love? Then you hate me! Montagues love to hate, fight and kill. But whether we love to hate or love to love doesn't matter. It's all the same passion, and will kill us all the same.

Can you tell me who it is you love?

A woman.

Yes. Who?

Rosaline.

Rosaline? Things may be alright. I know she will be at a party in the Capulet's house tonight.

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

In the Capulet's house? My father's enemy? I cannot enter there. I will surely be killed; but that will not be so bad.

Cousin, our friend, Mercutio is invited to the party. We can go with him. We will wear masks so no one will recognize us. (PAUSE)I see you smile. Not ready to die yet, eh?

I warn you: there will be many pretty girls there and you will forget about Rosaline.

Oh, Benvolio, there is no one as beautiful as her. I would never want another.

Believe what you want. Just get ready for the party.

THEY LEAVE THE STAGE. MUSIC BRIDGE. STAGE HANDS CHANGE THE BACKDROPS FROM A STREET IN VERONA TO CAPULET'S PALACE

ACT 1. SCENE 2

CAPULET:

PARIS:

CAPULET:

PARIS:

CAPULET:

CAPULET'S PALACE. CAPULET AND PARIS ENTER

I'm glad Montague has to obey the same rules as me. We are too old to fight.

it's a pity you've been enemies for so long. But sir, what do you say to my request

Your request? I'd almost forgotten.

Are you opposed to my marrying Juliet?

You are a fine young man; but she is so young. She is still a stranger in the world.She is only sixteen.

PARIS:

CAPULET:

PARIS:

Many younger than her are already mothers.

And spoilt by that.

I'm sorry. I've upset you. You are her father. You know best.

CAPULET:

PARIS:

CAPULET:

PARIS:

Wait! Woo her gently, Paris. Win her heart.

Thank you, sir.

If she agrees I will also will agree to the marriage.

Thank you Sir.

THEY BOTH LEAVE STAGE LEFT. MUSIC BRIDGE

ACT 1. SCENE 3 LADY CAPULET ENTERS STAGE RIGHT.

LADY CAPULET: (CALLING) Nurse!

NURSE:

LADY CAPULET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

LADY CAPULET:

JULIET:

LADY CAPULET:

(FOOTSTEPS RUNNING FROM A DISTANCE - PERHAPS ON AN ECHOING STAIRCASE. FADE MUSIC)

(NURSE ENTERS STAGE LEFT, RUNNING. CALLING OUT OF BREATH. SHE IS VERY FAT.)

Coming Madam!

Where's my daughter? Call her to me.

(ARRIVING. STILL OUT OF BREATH. )

(CALLING) My ladybird. Where are you? Juliet?

JULIET ENTERS STAGE LEFT)

What's going on? What do you want ?

Your mother wants you.

What do you want, Mother?

Tell me Juliet, how would you like to be married?

I've always dreamed of marriage, but I'm still too young.

I was your mother, when I was your age.

(PAUSE)

LADY CAPULET:

JULIET:

I will be brief. The brave Paris wants to marry you.What do you think, Juliet? He will be at the party tonight. Take a good look at him before you answer.

I will look, Mother,

THEY LEAVE THE STAGE. MUSIC BRIDGE. STAGE HANDS CHANGE THE BACKDROP BACK TO A STREET IN VERONA.

ACT 1. SCENE 4 EXTERIOR. A STREET IN VERONA

MERCUTIO ENTERS AND ROMEO FOLLOWS HIM. FADE MUSIC

MERCUTIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

Come on. We're going to be late.I thought a man in love could fly with Cupid's wings.

You're wrong Mercutio.Love is burdensome. So a lover's feet are slow.

But gentle Romeo, we must have you dance.

If I was in love I would dance.

Come. Let us hurry or we shall miss supper and the dance.

It will be okay to be late. I fear tonight will be a disaster.

THEY LEAVE THE STAGE AND AS THE STAGE HANDS RESTORE CAPULET'S PALACE BRING UP DANCE MUSIC

ACT 1. SCENE 5 MANY DANCERS IN MASKS DANCE ONTO THE STAGE.

CAPULET ENTERS; WITH COUSIN CAPULET.HE SIGNALS TO STOP THE MUSIC AND DANCING. THE DANCERS STOP TO LISTEN.

CAPULET: Welcome, gentlemen! ladies! Come more light. light the torches

SERVANTS BRING ON TORCHES AND THE STAGE IS LIGHTER.THE MUSIC STARTS UP AGAIN BUT MORE QUIETER THAN BEFORE SO THAT WE CAN HEAR THE SPEECHES.. THE DANCERS DANCE IN THE BACKGROUND.

CAPULET:

COUSIN CAPULET:

CAPULET:

COUSIN CAPULET:

Come ladies, let us see you dance!Good Cousin Capulet, you and I are past our dancing days:How long is it now since last you and I wore masks?

By Our Lady, thirty years.

It cannot be so long.

It is indeed.

THEY GO TO THE SIDE OF THE STAGE.

SWELL MUSIC AND TAKE DOWN, AS THE DANCERS DANCE FORWARD AND BACK AGAIN.

JULIET IS DANCING WITH PARIS

ROMEO:

SERVANT:

ROMEO:

ROMEO, MASKED, ENTERS. HE LOOKS IN WONDER AT JULIET. THEN HE APPPROACHES A SERVANT

My man, what lady is that, who dances with Count Paris?

I know not, sir.

O, she teaches the torches to burn bright!Her beauty is too good for this world.She outshines the other womenAs a white dove in a flock of crows. When this dance is over, I’ll see where she stands. Then I’ll touch her hand with my rough and ugly one. Did my heart ever love before this moment?Then my eyes were liars, Because I never saw true beauty until tonight.

SWELL MUSIC AGAIN. JULIET HAS SEEN ROMEO AND CANNOT STOP LOOKING AT HIM. TAKE THE MUSIC DOWN AGAIN

JULIET:

PARIS:

JULIET:

PARIS:

JULIET:

Ooh

What is the matter? What are you staring at?

Nothing. There's something is in my eye.

Can I take it out

No, no. Don't bother.

TAKE THE MUSIC UP AGAIN AS TYBALT ENTERS WITH SERVANT 2 AND SEES ROMEO. TAKE THE MUSIC DOWN AGAIN

TYBALT:

SERVANT 2:

TYBALT:

CAPULET:

TYBALT:

CAPULET:

TYBALT:

CAPULET:

TYBALT:

CAPULET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

I recognize this man. He must be a Montague.My man.

Yes Sir

Fetch me my sword. How dare he come here .For the honour of our family, it will not be a crime to kill him.

(CAPULET APPROACHES)

What's the matter nephew? Why are you so angry?

(POINTING) Uncle, that man is a Montague—our enemy.

He's young Romeo

Yes, that villain Romeo. He’s come here to mock us.(SHOUTS) Romeo!

Calm down, Tybalt. Leave him alone. He appears to be a gentleman.I have heard good things of him

I cannot tolerate him.

You will tolerate him at my party.

CAPULET LEADS TYBALT OFF STAGE. THE DANCE COMES TO AN END AND JULIET LEAVES PARIS WHO ALSO LEAVES THE STAGE.

ROMEO APPROACHES JULIET

(WHISPERING) Please follow me.

Where to?

Into the garden.

All right.

SERVANTS BRING ON SOME POTTED PLANTS OR SMALL TREES AND THEN LEAVE WITH EVERYBODY EXCEPT ROMEO AND JULIET. THE DANCE MUSIC STARTS UP AGAIN IN THE DISTANCE. ROMEO TAKES JULIET'S HANDS

ROMEO:

JULIET:

Your hands are gentle. You are like an angel.I would like to give you a tender kiss.

Angels have wings and often fly away.

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

PARIS:

LADY CAPULET:

CAPULET:

JULIET:

Don't angels have lips?

Yes lips they must use in prayer

(HE MOVES TOWARDS HER)

Then move not that I may taste your prayer.

(THEY KISS.)

(GENTLY) Ooh, you kiss beautifully.

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!

(SHE COMES INTO THE GARDEN)

Madam, your father and Paris are looking for you.

Who is her father?

This is Juliet and her father is the owner of the house.

Is she a Capulet?

(ENTERS THE STAGE) Come. We've been discovered. We have to leave before there's trouble

(LEAVING WITH HIM) There's trouble already.

Nurse, who was that gentleman?Is he married?

No, but he might as well be

What do you mean?

His name is Romeo Montague, the only son of your great enemy.

So my only love has come from my only hate.

What's this? My baby girl is in love?

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!

Tell them I've gone to bed.

SHE AND THE NURSE LEAVE. MUSIC BRIDGE. STAGE HANDS LEAVE THE BACKDROP OF CAPULET'S PALACE AND JUST

LEAVE THE POTTED PLANTS. THEY BRING ON A WALL NEAR STAGE LEFT AND A BALCONY STAGE RIGHT FADE MUSIC AS BENVOLIO AND MERCUTIO ENTER ON THE EXREME LEFT OF THE STAGE, LEFT OF THE WALL..

ACT II. SCENE 1.

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

MONTAGUE:

BENVOLIO:

MONTAGUE:

(CALLING) Romeo! my cousin Romeo!

He is wise;He has gone home to bed.

No. I saw him run this way. He jumped over this garden wall.

It is the Capulet's orchard.

He must have hidden in the trees.

His love is blind. It suits the dark night.

You're right.First he loves Rosaline, now Juliet

There' s no point looking for somebodywho doesn't want to be found. Let's go home to bed.

THEY LEAVE THE STAGE. BRING UP THE HOOTING OF AN OWL

ACT II SCENE 2

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

ROMEO ENTERS JUST TO THE RIGHT OF THE WALL. HE WAITS THEN JULIET ENTERS ON THE BALCONY

Oh! It is my angel. Oh, it is my love.

(NOT SEEING ROMEO YET) Ah, me!

(SOFTLY) Oh, speak again, my angel.

(STILL NOT SEEING HIM) Oh Romeo, Romeo! Where are you my sweet Romeo?

(SPEAKING LOUDER AND COMING NEARER) Juliet, my love. I will be yours.

Romeo, it's dangerous for you here. Tybalt, my cousin, may kill you!

I prefer to die here, than to be without you.

JULIET:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

JULIET:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

JULIET:

ROMEO

Do you love me?

I love you more than words can say.

(SHOUTS FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet! Juliet!

A noise. Go, dear love.

(HE BEGINS TO MOVE AWAY) No, stay!

(HE COMES BACK AND STARTS TO CLIMB THE BALCONY)

What can I do to make you happy?

Give me your heart. And I will give you mine.

I gave it before you asked. My love is as deep as the sea.

(SHOUTS FROM A DISTANCE) My lady!

If your love is real, do you want to marry me?

I do want to marry you.

When?

Tomorrow.

It will seem like twenty years. Go now.

(SHE BLOWS HIM A KISS. HE TOUCHES IT TO HIS HEART)

Good night. Parting is such sweet sorrow. I will see you tomorrow.

I will not sleep till then.

JULIET LEAVES AND ROMEO CLIMBS OVER THE WALL. MUSIC BRIDGE. CHURCH MUSIC. THE STAGE HANDS BRING ON A BACKDROP OF A CHURCH. OR THE BALCONY COULD BE TURNED ROUND TO REVEAL PART OF A CHURCH

ACT II SCENE 3

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

FRIAR LAWRENCE ENTERS AND KNEELS DOWN TO PRAY.LISTEN TO THE MUSIC. THEN ROMEO ENTERS

Good Morning, Father.

FRIAR LAWRENCE GETS UP

Good Morning. Why are you up so early?

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

I did not go to bed.

What do you want my son?

(HE KNEELS BEFORE THE FRIAR) I want you to marry me to Juliet.

Are you crazy?

I want to marry her today.

(FRIAR LAWRENCE PACES UP AND DOWN, THINKING)

Father?

All right. I will marry you both. I hope this marriage brings love to your families, instead of hate.

THEY LEAVE

MUSIC BRIDGE. STAGE HANDS BRING ON THE BACKDROP OF A STREET IN VERONA FROM ACT I SCENE 1 AND REMOVE THE CHURCH BACKDROP, ETC. LOSE MUSIC.

ACT II SCENE 4

MERCUTIO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

A STREET IN VERONA

ON ONE SIDE OF THE STAGE MERCUTIO ENTERS HUMMING A TUNE. ROMEO FOLLOWS HIM. THEN THE NURSE ENTERS FROM THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STAGE WALKING THE WAY VERY FAT PEOPLE WALK.

Is that an elephant coming towards us?

(THE NURSE GETS CLOSER)

Oh. It's just a fat lady.

Fat lady! How rude! I was looking for Romeo.I'm sad to see him with such a rude man.

What can I do for you, Madam?

Can I talk to you in private, Sir?

(MERCUTIO SHRUGS HIS SHOULDERS AND WALKS AWAY)

My young lady has told me everything. I have a message from her.

Ah?!?

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

But first, she is so young. Do you only pretend to love her?

Pretend !!?? My heart and soul belong to her.

(THE NURSE LOOKS INTO HIS EYES)

My lady loves you. And she is very precious to me. (PAUSE)Oh, dear Romeo, you are going to make her very happy.

I plan to. Friar Lawrence has agreed to marry us.

Marry you? How beautiful!

Bring her to the church, as soon as you can.

(THE NURSE HURRIES OFF. ROMEO LEAVES.) MUSIC BRIDGE. THE STAGE HANDS REMOVE THE BACKDROP OF THE VERONA STREET AND BRING ON A BACKDROP OF AN ORCHARD AT NIGHT AND A SILVER CRESCENT MOON

ACT II SCENE 5

JULIET:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

ORCHARD AT NIGHT. THE MUSIC MIXES INTO THE HOOTING OF AN OWL. JULIET ENTERS

(SIGHING TO HERSELF)I sent her so long ago. Why is she so slow?

THEN THE NURSES ENTERS SHE STUMBLES AND TRIES TO FEEL HER WAY IN THE DARK.

Oh here she comes!

SHE COMES UP TO JULIET AND FEELS HER

Oh, there you are.

Oh, what happened? Did you meet him? Why do you look so sad?

(PUFFING) Just a moment. I'm out of breath.

(SHAKING THE NURSE) Tell me! Is it good news or bad news?

You told me his face was more handsome than anyone's, but his hands, his feet, and his whole body are better too.

I know. I know! But what did he say about our marriage?

He said something about it.

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

You tease me! Am I going to be married today or not?

You didn't want to get married to Paris so quickly.Why are you so eager to marry Romeo?

What did Romeo say?

Do you have to go to confession today?

Stop teasing me! Tell me what Romeo said.

Okay, okay, I was only teasing you. A young woman that is going to get married can forgive me.

Married!

Now if you want to make confession, you have to go to church.

Thank you! Thank you! Let's go right now!

JULIET RUNS OFF AND THE NURSE STUMBLES SLOWLY AFTER HER.

BRING UP CHURCH MUSIC AGAIN. STAGE HAND REMOVE ORCHARD AND MOON ANDBRING ON CHURCH BACKGROUND AGAIN

ACT II SCENE 6

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

INTERIOR. THE CHURCH. THE ACOUSTIC IS ECHOEYFRIAR LAWRENCE ENTERS FROM ONE SIDE AND ROMEO FROM THE OTHER

May God bless this Holy marriage. Please God let nothing go wrong.

(EXCITED) Amen. So be it.

Calm yourself.

JULIET ENTERS

(APPROACHING) Good evening, Father. Romeo my love.

(SHE FLIES INTO HIS ARMS. THEY KISS)

My love, you are better with words than I.Tell me how happy we shall be when we are married.

I love you more than words can say.My love is worth more than all the riches in the world.

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

FRIAR LAWRENCE COMES BETWEEN THEM.

That's enough! Let's hurry up with the wedding.

BRING UP THE CHURCH MUSIC. THEN THEY KNEEL DOWN AND HE MAKES THE SIGN OF THE CROSS OVER THEM.

THEN THEY GET UP AND LEAVE THE STAGE HAND IN HAND

STAGE HANDS REMOVE THE CHURCH BACKGROUND AND RESTORE THE VERONA STREET

ACT III SCENE 1

TYBALT:

MERCUTIO:

TYBALT:

MERCUTIO:

TYBALT:

ROMEO:

MERCUTIO:

TYBALT;

ROMEO:

MERCUTIO:

ROMEO:

TYBALT:

VERONA STREET SCENE

TYBALT AND MERCUTIO ENTER

Mercutio, where is Romeo?

Tybalt, even if I knew, I wouldn't tell you.

(TYBALT DRAWS HIS SWORD. THEN HE SEES ROMEO COMING)

Ah. Here comes my man.

Your man? Is he one of your servants?

A mistake. I should have called him a villain.

Tybalt, I will forgive your anger. I love you like a brother, more than you can know.

What !!?? Are you a coward, Romeo? I'll be happy when Tybalt is dead!

I'm ready for you!

Tybalt! Mercutio!! Put your swords away!

(HE TRIES TO PART THEM, BUT TYBALT STABS MERCUTIO IN THE CHEST)

Aah … (HE FALLS TO THE GROUND)

(ROMEO KNEELS BESIDE HIM)

He's dead. (TO TYBALT. ANGRY NOW) So you want to stare at his dead body now!

You poor little boy.Do you want to die like Mercutio?

ROMEO:

TYBALT:

ROMEO:

ROMEO:

(ROMEO LEAPS TO HIS FEET)

My sword is strong.

(THEY HAVE A FIERCE SWORD FIGHT. ROMEO KILLS TYBALT, WHO FALLS TO THE GROUND)

(GROANING) I die. You have slain your enemy.

Oh, I am a fool. I have killed my beloved's cousin.

(HE DROPS HIS SWORD

I must flee. (HE RUNS AWAY)

COMPLETE THE SCRIPT IN A FEW LINES OF DIALOGUE

� Does Juliet forgive Romeo?�� Is Romeo caught and sent to prison or killed ?�� Does Friar Lawrence still marry them?�� Do they live happily ever after ?�� Or do they both die?�� Any other ideas?

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________

AUDIO PLAYRomeo and Juliet

by William Shakespeareadapted for audio by Shaun MacLoughlin

CAST CAST SPOT EFFECTS RECORDED EFFECTS

MUSIC

Romeo Juliet Sword being unsheathed

Footsteps on cobbles

Romeo and Juliet Overture by Tchaikovsky

Gregory Nurse Clashing of swords

Nurses footsteps approaching up staircase

Medieval Music - Three Basse Dance

Sampson Lady Capulet swords falling onto ground

Hooting of owl Church music. Gregorian chant

Abraham Lady Montague

Balthasar ParisBenvolio Cousin CapuletTybalt Servant at BallCapulet Friar LawrenceMontague

SCENE 1

SAMPSON:

GREGORY:

SAMPSON:

GREGORY:

SAMPSON:

EXTERIOR. FOOTSTEPS ON COBBLES.

I will not fight. But nobody should insult me. If we meet any Montagues, they should be quiet.

Or what will you do?

I'll kill them.

(HE STOPS WALKING) All of them?

(HE ALSO STOPS WALKING) Yes. If they are Montagues, everyone of them.

GREGORY: Will you kill their women too?

SAMPSON: I'll kill their men with swords and their women with smiles.

(WE HEAR APPROACHING FOOTSTEPS ON COBBLES)

GREGORY: Here come two of the house of Montague. Draw your sword.

(SOUND EFFECT OF SWORD BEING UNSHEATHED)

SAMPSON: My naked weapon is out. Quarrel, and I will back you.

GREGORY: Let us keep the law on our side. Let them begin.

SAMPSON:

ABRAHAM:

SAMPSON:

ABRAHAM:

I will bite my thumb at them. They will take that as an insult.

(NOTE: IN SHAKESPEARE'S DAY TO BITE YOUR THUMB AT SOMEONE WAS TO IMPLY THAT THEY WERE GAY)

Do you bite your thumb at us, sir?

I do bite my thumb, sir.

Do you bite your thumb at us, sir?

SAMPSON: No, sir, I do not bite my thumb at you, sir, but I bite my thumb, sir.

BALTHASAR: Just like a Capulet!

SAMPSON: What do you mean?

BALTHASAR: Insulting someone and then too cowardly to admit it.

SAMPSON: Draw if you be men!

(SOUND EFFECTS OF MORE SWORDS BEING DRAWN)

Gregory, remember you deadly thrust!

(WE HEAR SCUFFLING, THE CLASH OF SWORDS AND HEAVY BREATHING.)

BENVOLIO:

BENVOLIO:

(RUNNING TOWARDS THEM) Part fools! Put down your swords!

(HE ARRIVES AND BEATS DOWN THEIR SWORDS WHICH WE HEAR FALLING ONTO THE GROUND)

You know not what you do!

(WE HEAR MORE FOOTSTEPS RUNNING TOWARDS US)

TYBALT: (RUNNING FORWARD, OUT OF BREATH) So Benvolio, you have drawn your sword against my friends!

BENVOLIO: I am trying to keep the peace.

TYBALT: You talk of peace with your sword drawn?! Turn and meet your death!

BENVOLIO: Help me to part these men.

TYBALT: (LUNGING FORWARD) Have at you coward!!

(CLASH OF SWORDS. SHOUTING CROWDS ARRIVE)

CROWD 1:

CROWD 2:

CROWD 3:

CROWD 4:

CROWD5:

CAPULET:

LADY CAPULET:

(SHOUTING) Strike him!

Kill him!

Beat them down!

Down with the Capulets!

Down with the Montagues!

(APPROACHING MICROPHONE)

What noise is this? Give me my long sword!

Sword? You need a crutch, not a sword.

MONTAGUE: (APPROACHING) You villain, Capulet. Let me at him.

LADY MONTAGUE: How can you fight? You can barely walk.

(HORSE HOOVES APPROACH ON COBBLES)

PRINCE ESCALUS: (APPROACHING) Rebellious subjects, enemies to peace, throw your weapons to the ground.

(SWORDS ARE DROPPED TO THE GROUND)

BENVOLIO AND TYBALT:

PRINCE ESCALUS:

CAPULET:

MONTAGUE:

PRINCE ESCALUS:

Sire.

Three times you have disturbed the peace of Verona. Old Capulet, and Montague, this is your fault. If you disturb our streets again, your lives shall pay for it. Do you understand?

Yes, Sire

Yes, Sire

Return to your homes. FADE. MUSIC BRIDGE

SCENE 2

LADY MONTAGUE:

BENVOLIO:

LADY MONTAGUE:

MONTAGUE

BENVOLIO:

INTERIOR. MONTAGUE'S PALACE. A DOOR CLOSES. FOOTSEPS APPROACH.

I am glad my Romeo wasn't in this fight.Benvolio, have you seen him today?

I saw him this morning, my Lady, lying on the garden wall. He looked so sad.

Oh my poor Romeo!

Do you know why he looked so sad?

No, my Lord. When I approached him he ran away. See, here he comes now. Shall I speak to him?

MONTAGUE: (DEPARTING) Yes, Benvolio, please do.(NOTE IF YOU HAVE A STEREO MICROPHONE LET HIM LEAVE TO THE LEFT)

LADY MONTAGUE: (DEPARTING WITH HIM) Thank you, Benvolio.

(DOOR CLOSES TO THE LEFT AND ANOTHER THEN OPENS AND CLOSES TO THE RIGHT)

BENVOLIO: Good morning, cousin.

ROMEO: (APPROACHING FROM MICROPHONE RIGHT)Is it still morning?

BENVOLIO: It is only nine o'clock.

ROMEO: Sad hours pass slowly.

BENVOLIO: Are you in love?

ROMEO: Out.

BENVOLIO: I don't understand.

ROMEO: The one I love, does not love me. Therefore I am out of love.

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

(LAUGHS)

Don't laugh at me.

No, no.... It's just that.

Forgive me. I haven't slept in a day, because I've been thinking so

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

much. I didn't even notice that you've been injured.

It's nothing. Just the usual fight with the Capulets.

I should have been with you. Perhaps one of the Capulets would have stabbed me, and put me out of my misery.

You aren't serious!

(ROMEO SIGHS)

I hate to see you like this.

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO GRABS BENVOLIO

(SHOUTS) Hate? Hate to see me in love? Then you hate me! Montagues love to hate, fight and kill. But whether we love to hate or love to love doesn't matter. It's all the same passion, and will kill us all the same.

Can you tell me who it is you love?

A woman.

Yes. Who?

Rosaline.

Rosaline? Things may be alright. I know she will be at a party in the Capulet's house tonight.

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

In the Capulet's house? My father's enemy? I cannot enter there. I will surely be killed; but that will not be so bad.

Cousin, our friend, Mercutio is invited to the party. We can go with him. We will wear masks so no one will recognize us. (PAUSE)I see you smile. Not ready to die yet, eh?

I warn you: there will be many pretty girls there and you will forget about Rosaline.

Oh, Benvolio, there is no one as beautiful as her. I would never want another.

Believe what you want. Just get ready for the party.

MUSIC BRIDGE

SCENE 3 INTERIOR. CAPULET'S PALACE.

CAPULET:

PARIS:

CAPULET:

PARIS:

CAPULET:

PARIS:

CAPULET:

PARIS:

I'm glad Montague has to obey the same rules as me. We are too old to fight.

it's a pity you've been enemies for so long. But sir, what do you say to my request

Your request? I'd almost forgotten.

Are you opposed to my marrying Juliet?

You are a fine young man; but she is so young. She is still a stranger in the world.She is only sixteen.

Many younger than her are already mothers.

And spoilt by that.

I'm sorry. I've upset you. You are her father. You know best.

CAPULET:

PARIS:

CAPULET:

PARIS:

Wait! Woo her gently, Paris. Win her heart.

Thank you, sir.

If she agrees I will also will agree to the marriage.

(LEAVING) Thank you Sir.

FADE. MUSIC BRIDGE

SCENE 4 INTERIOR. ANOTHER ROOM IN CAPULET'S PALACE.

LADY CAPULET: (CALLING) Nurse!

NURSE:

LADY CAPULET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

(FOOTSTEPS RUNNING FROM A DISTANCE - PERHAPS ON AN ECHOING STAIRCASE)

(CALLING OUT OF BREATH) Coming Madam!

Where's my daughter? Call her to me.

(ARRIVING. STILL OUT OF BREATH. )(CALLING) My ladybird. Where are you? Juliet?

(ENTERING) What's going on? What do you want ?

Your mother wants you.

What do you want, Mother?

LADY CAPULET:

NURSE:

LADY CAPULET:

JULIET:

Tell me Juliet, how would you like to be married?

I've always dreamed of marriage, but I'm still too young.

I was your mother, when I was your age.

(PAUSE)

I will be brief. The brave Paris wants to marry you.What do you think, Juliet? He will be at the party tonight. Take a good look at him before you answer.

I will look, Mother,

FADE

SCENE 5 EXTERIOR. A STREET IN VERONA

MERCUTIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

Come on. We're going to be late.I thought a man in love could fly with Cupid's wings.

You're wrong Mercutio.Love is burdensome. So a lover's feet are slow.

But gentle Romeo, we must have you dance.

If I was in love I would dance.

Come. Let us hurry or we shall miss supper and the dance.

It will be okay to be late. I fear tonight will be a disaster.

FADE

SCENE 6 INTERIOR. LARGE HALL AT CAPULET'S PALACE

ESTABLISH MEDIAEVAL DANCE MUSIC AND LAUGHTER AND VOICES. THEN TAKE DOWN BEHIND THE SPEECHES

CAPULET: (CALLS DISTANT FROM MICROPHONE) Welcome, gentlemen! ladies! Come more light. light the torchesCome ladies, let us see you dance!(CLOSER TO MICROPHONE. MORE QUIETLY ) Good Cousin Capulet, you and I are past our dancing days:How long is it now since last you and I wore masks?

COUSIN CAPULET:

CAPULET:

COUSIN CAPULET:

By Our Lady, thirty years.

It cannot be so long.

It is indeed.

SWELL MUSIC AND TAKE DOWN AGAIN

ROMEO:

SERVANT:

ROMEO:

My man, what lady is that, who dances with Count Paris?

I know not, sir.

O, she teaches the torches to burn bright!Her beauty is too good for this world.She outshines the other womenAs a white dove in a flock of crows. When this dance is over, I’ll see where she stands. Then I’ll touch her hand with my rough and ugly one. Did my heart ever love before this moment?Then my eyes were liars, Because I never saw true beauty until tonight.

SWELL MUSIC AGAIN AND THEN TAKE DOWN

JULIET:

PARIS:

JULIET:

PARIS:

JULIET:

Oooh!

What is the matter? What are you staring at?

Nothing. There's something is in my eye.

Can I take it out

No, no. Don't bother.

TYBALT:

SERVANT 2:

TYBALT:

CAPULET:

TYBALT:

CAPULET:

TYBALT:

I recognize this man. He must be a Montague.My man.

Yes Sir

Fetch me my sword. How dare he come here .For the honour of our family, it will not be a crime to kill him.

(APPROACHING) What's the matter nephew? Why are you so angry?

(POINTING) Uncle, that man is a Montague—our enemy.

He's young Romeo

Yes, that villain Romeo. He’s come here to mock us.(SHOUTS) Romeo!

CAPULET:

TYBALT:

CAPULET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

Calm down, Tybalt. Leave him alone. He appears to be a gentleman.I have heard good things of him

I cannot tolerate him.

You will tolerate him at my party.

(SWELL MUSIC AGAIN AND TAKE DOWN A LITTLE )

(WHISPERING) Please follow me.

Where to?

Into the garden.

All right.

(TAKE DOWN THE MUSIC MORE AS WE GO INTO THE GARDEN)

SCENE 7

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

EXTERIOR. GARDEN.

Your hands are gentle. You are like an angel.I would like to give you a tender kiss.

Angels have wings and often fly away.

Don't angels have lips?

Yes lips they must use in prayer

Then move not that I may taste your prayer.

(THEY KISS. THE WAY TO DO THIS ON AUDIO IS TO MOVE VERY CLOSE TO THE MICROPHONE AND TO MAKE GENTLE SOUNDS OF LIPS KISSING THE BACKS OF HANDS AND MAKE HAPPY BREATHING SOUNDS)

(GENTLY) Oooh, you kiss beautifully.

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!(SHE COMES INTO THE GARDEN)Madam, your father and Paris are looking for you.

Who is her father?

This is Juliet and her father is the owner of the house.

Is she a Capulet?

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

PARIS:

LADY CAPULET:

CAPULET:

JULIET:

(APPROACHING) Come. We've been discovered. We have to leave before there's trouble

(LEAVING WITH HIM) There's trouble already.

Nurse, who was that gentleman?Is he married?

No, but he might as well be

What do you mean?

His name is Romeo Montague, the only son of your great enemy.

So my only love has come from my only hate.

What's this? My baby girl is in love?

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!

(CALLING FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet!

Tell them I've gone to bed.

FADE. MUSIC BRIDGE

SCENE 8

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

MONTAGUE:

BENVOLIO:

MONTAGUE:

EXTERIOR. NIGHT. WE HEAR AN OWL.

(CALLING) Romeo! my cousin Romeo!

He is wise;He has gone home to bed.

No. I saw him run this way. He jumped over this garden wall.

It is the Capulet's orchard.

He must have hidden in the trees.

His love is blind. It suits the dark night.

You're right.First he loves Rosaline, now Juliet

There' s no point looking for somebodywho doesn't want to be found. Let's go home to bed.

BRING UP THE HOOTING OF AN OWL

FADESCENE 9

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

NURSE:

EXTERIOR. GARDEN. STILL AT NIGHT

(WHISPERING TO HIMSELF)What light is that on that balcony?Oh! It is my angel. Oh, it is my love.

(NOT SEEING ROMEO YET) Ah, me!

(WHISPERING AGAIN) Oh, speak again, my angel.

(STILL NOT SEEING HIM) Oh Romeo, Romeo! Why are you called my sweet Romeo?Forget you are a Montague.If not, just say say you love me, and I'll no longer be a Capulet.

(SPEAKING LOUDER SO SHE CAN HEAR) Juliet, my love. I will be only yours.

Romeo is it really you?How did you get here.The walls are high and hard to climb.Romeo, it's dangerous for you here. Tybalt, my cousin, may kill you!

I prefer to die here, than to be without you.

Do you love me?

I love you more than words can say.

(SHOUTS FROM A DISTANCE) Juliet! Juliet! My Lady!

(CALLING) In a minute! Go, dear love.

(HE BEGINS TO TIP-TOE AWAY) Farewell my love.

No, stay! What can I do to make you happy?

Give me your heart. And I will give you mine.

I gave it before you asked. My love is as deep as the sea.

(SHOUTS FROM A DISTANCE) My lady!

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

If your love is real, do you want to marry me?

I do want to marry you.

When?

Tomorrow.I'll come myself.

No. It's too dangerous. I'll send my nurse. When will you be ready?

By nine o'clock tomorrow

It will seem like twenty years, but I will endure it. Go now.Good night. Parting is such sweet sorrow. I will see you tomorrow.

I will not sleep till then.

FADE. MUSIC BRIDGE

SCENE 10

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

INTERIOR. FRIAR LAWRENCE'S CELL (THE ACOUSTIC IS A SMALL ECHOEY ROOM)

Good Morning, Father.

Good Morning. Why are you up so early?

I did not go to bed.

Oh. Were you with Rosaline?

Rosaline? I've forgotten all about her.

That's good, But then where you?

Dancing with my enemy.That's where I forgot about Rosaline and learned what true love is.

You're confusing me.

I love Capulet's daughter. And she loves me. We've just met, but our love is everlasting. We have sworn to marry. You must marry us today.

Marry you!You cried for Rosaline yesterday yesterday. Now you say you will marry another.

Didn't you scold me for loving Rosaline?

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

I scolded you for idolizing her.

Didn't you tell me not to love her?

Yes, but not to fall in love again so quickly.You are too passionate.

Don't we all live by passion?

We live by reason. We die by our passions.

Well then praise me for being reasonable.I know you were right about Rosaline.I wasn't in love with her.But Juliet is perfect and it's reasonable to love perfection, right?You must marry us!

(PAUSE)

Father?

You have not persuaded me Romeo. But all right. I will marry you both. I hope this marriage brings love to yourfamilies, instead of hate.

SCENE 11

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

EXTERIOR. A STREET IN VERONA.

Where is Romeo? You said he wasn't home when you got there?

No, but Tybalt has sent a letter to him.

A challenge to fight?

I'm sure Romeo will accept the challenge.

Then Romeo will die. Tybalt is an excellent fighter.

I'd feel better if I knew where Romeo was. There is our poor lover now.

(CALLING) Romeo!

Why did you run away from us last night?

(SPEAKING AS HE APPROACHES THE MICROPHONE)I'm sorry. I had something very important to do.

Have you seen the letter?

ROMEO:

MERCUTIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

ROMEO:

BENVOLIO:

MERCUTIO:

NURSE:

MERCUTIO:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

NURSE:

Letter?

Yes, from the house of Capulet, your enemy.

From the house of Capulet? What did it say?

Why are you so excited?

Is it news? It seems like a thousand years since I heard her voice.Where is the letter?

What do you mean “her voice'?

He's crazy. And I must be too. Is that an elephant coming towards us? (PAUSE)Oh, I see. It's just a fat lady.

(APPROACHING) Fat lady! How rude! I was looking for young Romeo here.I'm sad to see him with such a rude man.

(LEAVING) We'll leave him with you.A man in love is not good company for bad-mannered men like us.

What can I do for you, Madam?

Can I talk to you in private, Sir?

Certainly.

My young lady has told me everything. I have a message from her.

Ah?!?

But first, she is so young. Do you only pretend to love her?

Pretend !!?? I cannot pretend. With Juliet I have discovered myself.My heart and soul belong to her.(PAUSE)Are you happy with my answer?

My lady loves you. And she is very precious to me. What is important to her, is important to me.(PAUSE)Oh, dear Romeo, you are going to make Juliet very happy.

ROMEO:

NURSE:

ROMEO:

I plan to. Friar Lawrence has agreed to marry us. Create a plan, and bring Juliet to the church so we can be married.

Married? How beautiful!

Bring her to the church, as soon as you can.

FADE. MUSIC BRIDGE

SCENE 12

JULIET:

JULIET:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

INTERIOR. JULIET"S ROOM.

WE HEAR JULIET'S FOOTSTEPS PACING UP AND DOWN - THE ACTRESS SHOULD WEAR HARD SOLED SHOES

(SIGHING TO HERSELF)I sent her so long ago. Why is she so slow?

SHE CONTINUES SIGHING AND PACING. WE HEAR FOOTSTEPS ON STAIRS APPROCHING.

Oh here she comes!

THEN THE DOOR OPENS. OPENING AN OLD FASHIONED LATCH SOUND EFFECT WILL HELP CREATE THE PICTURE IN THE LISTENER'S IMAGINATION.

Oh, what happened? Did you meet him? Why do you look so sad?

(PUFFING) Just a moment. I'm out of breath.

(SHAKING THE NURSE) Tell me! Is it good news or bad news?

You told me his face was more handsome than anyone's, but his hands, his feet, and his whole body are better too.

I know. I know! But what did he say about our marriage?

He said something about it.

You tease me! Am I going to be married today or not?

You didn't want to get married to Paris so quickly.Why are you so eager to marry Romeo?

What did Romeo say?

Do you have to go to confession today?

Stop teasing me! Tell me what Romeo said.

NURSE:

JULIET:

NURSE:

JULIET:

Okay, okay, I was only teasing you. A young woman that is going to get married can forgive me.

Married!

Now if you want to make confession, you have to go to church.

Thank you! Thank you! Let's go right now!

SCENE 13

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

ROMEO:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

JULIET:

ROMEO:

JULIET:

FRIAR LAWRENCE:

INTERIOR. THE CHURCH. THE ACOUSTIC IS ECHOEY

May God bless this Holy marriage. Please God let nothing go wrong.

(EXCITED) Amen. So be it.

Calm yourself.

(APPROACHING) Good evening, Father. Romeo my love.

(SHE FLIES INTO HIS ARMS. THEY KISS)

My love, you are better with words than I.Tell me how happy we shall be when we are married.

I love you more than words can say.My love is worth more than all the riches in the world.

FRIAR LAWRENCE COMES BETWEEN THEM.

That's enough! Let's hurry up with the wedding.

SCENE 14

TYBALT:

MERCUTIO:

TYBALT:

MERCUTIO:

TYBALT:

ROMEO:

EXTERIOR. STREET IN VERONA.

Mercutio, where is Romeo?

Tybalt, even if I knew, I wouldn't tell you.

(TYBALT DRAWS HIS SWORD. THEN HE SEES ROMEO COMING)

Ah. Here comes my man.

Your man? Is he one of your servants?

A mistake. I should have called him a villain.

Tybalt, I will forgive your anger. I love you like a brother, more than you can know.

MERCUTIO:

MERCUTIO:

ROMEO:

TYBALT:

MERCUTIO:

TYBALT:

ROMEO:

MERCUTIO:

TYBALT:

MERCUTIO:

ROMEO:

TYBALT:

ROMEO:

TYBALT:

What !!?? Are you a coward, Romeo? I'll be happy when Tybalt is dead!

(MERCUTIO UNSHEATHES HIS SWORD)

Tybalt, you rat-catcher, will you fight with me?

Noble Mercutio, put your sword away.

What would you have of me?

Good King of Cats I would have more than one of your nine lives.

(TYBALT UNSHEATHES HIS SWORD)

I'm ready for you!

(WE HEAR HEAVY BREATHING, FOOTWORK AND THE CLASHING OF SWORDS.)

Tybalt !! Mercutio!! Put your swords away!The Prince has banned fighting in the streets. Stop, Tybalt. Stop, good Mercutio.

(HE TRIES TO PART THEM, BUT TYBALT STABS MERCUTIO IN THE CHEST)

Aaargh!

Take that!

Aah … (HE FALLS TO THE GROUND)

(ROMEO KNEELS BESIDE HIM)

He's dead. (TO TYBALT. ANGRY NOW) Now, Tybalt, you can call me “villain”.Mercutio’s soul is floats above our heads. He waits for you to keep him company on the way to heaven.

You poor little boy.Do you want to go to heaven with him?

(ROMEO LEAPS TO HIS FEET)

This sword shall decide who dies.

(THEY HAVE A FIERCE SWORD FIGHT. ROMEO KILLS TYBALT, WHO FALLS TO THE GROUND)

(GROANING) I die. You have slain your enemy.

ROMEO: Oh, I am a fool. I have killed my beloved's cousin.

(HE DROPS HIS SWORD)

(RUNNING AWAY. HIS VOICE ECHOES AS HE GOES)I must flee.

What happens next ! ! ! ? ? ?Help your child to write and then perform his or her own ending.

Does Juuliet forgive Romeo?Is Romeo caught and sent to prison or killed ?Does Juliet not forgive Romeo for killing Romeo and kill him?Do Romeo and Juliet live happily ever after ?What does Capulet do?What happens to the nurse?What happens to Friar Lawrence?What happens to Paris?Do Romeo and Juliet both die?Any other ideas?

Think of more questions. Then help your child to write a scene or two to continue or complete the play.

PRIZES ! ! !:

Send us your script and if possible the audio file of your playThere will be prizes of phonics courses, full length audio and stage scripts for:

The best productionThe clearest spoken English by all the actors. (We will check that you are not native English speakers).The best performance.The best sound effects.The best music composed and performed by the students.The best illustrations to the script.The best new ending (can be script only, but there will be a bonus for production too.)

OR YOU CAN BUY - for a very modest sum

the full length stage or audio scripts of Romeo and Juliet, The Jungle Book, TreasureIsland or Sleeping Beauty. See appendix below.

Copyright © Shaun MacLoughlin, English through Drama 2016Member of WIPO (World Intellectual Property Organization).