Romeo and Juliet Steampunk

Get thee to the Colonnade for "Romeo and Juliet" in Steampunk

William Shakespeare's enduring tragedy, "Romeo and Juliet," is coming to the Colonnade Performing Arts Theater at 264 Catoosa Cir, Ringgold, GA. But not in the way you might expect.

Back Alley Productions is presenting the classic in its original writing in Steampunk: an art form that sets Victorian England in an alternate timeline where the industrial revolution came early.

Performances are Friday and Saturday nights on Aug. 23, 24, 30, 31 at 7:30 p.m. There will also be a Saturday, April 31 matinee at 1 p.m.

"More than a year ago, I saw Romeo and Juliet," said Director Kaylee Smith. "Like many people, I wanted the star-crossed lovers to come out on top and get their happy ending. Of course, that's not what happened. I began thinking how fitting this story would be in the world of steampunk, where we could incorporate an alternate timeline, blending an old story with a new emerging art form. This way we could embrace the dystopic timeline where everything goes wrong for our characters" Smith said “and embrace the aesthetics of steampunk. For traditionalist the story is completely untouched, but for the younger audiences who haven’t experienced Shakespeare, who have grown up in the sci-fi era of youtube, cosplay, and the concept of dystopic time, I think it will add an exciting element of enjoyment for them as well. We all know Shakespeare was ahead of his time, and his writings are even more relevant today as they were to his generation.”

The production, will feature a large clock tower as a centerpiece, and the action includes sword fights, gun fights, stage blood, music and dance, Our costumes are classic steampunk (Victorian with goggles and cogwheels) The play will be presented in Shakespeare's original writing and will run approximately 150 minutes, with a 15 minute intermission.

"I am so pleased with my cast," Smith said. "Everyone has been dedicated to learning how to perform Shakespeare. It is easy to get intimidated by what is basically a new language. But not this crew of 20-plus, ages 14 to 50. They've come in and really blown me away. Every show I've directed has a special place in my heart, but this one is Back Alley's best achievement in theater, blending a up-and-coming art style with a timeless tale, blending the old with the new. It is a show that can be enjoyed by everyone."

Tickets are $11 for adults, $9 for students and seniors and $8 per person at a group rate of 15 people. Tickets can be picked up at the box office or ordered online at colonnadecenter.tix.com. Due to the intensity of the subject matter, parental guidance is advised for children 13 and under. For more information, call (706) 621 2870.