Romeo and Juliet - A Pantomime

Subject: Drama
Level: Secondary
Age Group: 11 - 14
Order Number: 5249

This resource will both enable and encourage students to access Shakespeare. It can be used at either KS3, in an English or Drama context or at KS4 for students following the N.E.A.B. English Literature syllabus. Converting the story of Romeo and Juliet into a contemporary pantomime, the material provides a positive and entertaining experience of Shakespeare.

The resource contains an amusing script of Romeo and Juliet in pantomime form, which can be read, performed or studied. Written in colloquial language, the piece is easily accessible to all students and may particularly benefit those of low ability. The script however is also written in iambic pentameter, Shakespeare’s chosen rhythm, and will give students an insight into Shakespeare’s style of poetry.

The package also includes extensive notes for directors and suggestions for costume, music and lighting.

The resource could be used as an introduction to, or alongside the study of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and will eradicate obvious language barriers associated with the playwright. The play is suitable for mixed or single sex groups, scenes are short and no part is too demanding for a student to read or memorise for performance purposes. Whilst essentially portraying the traditional story, many pantomime conventions are incorporated and include Nursey’s magic wand, Friar John’s pantomime horse and classic pantomime response such as, ‘He’s behind you’.

Contemporary music suggestions are given to enable dance to become an integral part of the play. The above factors combine to create a piece, which sustains students attention and appreciation. The play has been successfully studied and performed at the author’s own school and at the “Shakespeare Schools Festival.