Romeo and Juliet (Love and War)
| Industry | Television drama |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1967 |
| Headquarters | Melbourne , Australia |
| Products | Television play |
Romeo and Juliet is a 1967 Australian television drama adapted from Shakespeare’s classic, broadcast as part of the ABC anthology series Love and War.
Premise
Set in Verona, the story follows Romeo and Juliet, two young lovers from feuding families.
Cast
- Sean Scully portraying Romeo
- Liza Goddard in the role of Juliet
- Syd Conabere as Friar Laurence
- Robin Ramsay cast as Mercutio
- David Turnbull playing Tybalt
- Jennifer Claire
- Joseph James
- Joan Harris as Nurse
Production
This production represented the inaugural Australian television version of Shakespeare’s play, involving a cast exceeding fifty performers. Director Oscar Whitbread highlighted the importance of casting youthful actors to capture the genuine experience of adolescent love and its associated feelings of isolation. The filming took place in Melbourne, with the project announced in July and rehearsals commencing in September. The adaptation, crafted by Alan Cole from Melbourne University, received commendation from Whitbread for its high standard.
Reception
The Age described the production as "a really splendid achievement."
Conversely, the Sydney Morning Herald critiqued it for a lack of imaginative interpretation, commenting that Sean Scully’s and Liza Goddard’s performances appeared somewhat casual and that the overall tempo was inconsistent.