Photo by Joe Bishara
Polar opposites collide in CATCO’s production of The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet.
CATCO’s 2015-16 season opener, premiering Aug. 28, fuses the Bard’s well-known drama with the colorful creativity of the author of Green Eggs and Ham.
The result, says Associate Producing Director Joe Bishara, is an accessible Shakespeare approach for all audiences.
While the narrative still revolves around Romeo and Juliet, Dr. Seuss characters including Thing 1 and Thing 2 make an appearance.
“A large majority of Shakespeare’s storyline remains intact and is told through Dr. Seuss-like rhyming couplets,” Bishara says. “Some character names (and the tragic ending) have been modified so as to keep the overall feel of the production more upbeat.”
That positivity is reflected in the costume design, which features a decidedly Seuss-inspired color scheme featuring vibrant clothing and crazy hats and wigs.
Though the set design is minimal, Bishara says, it draws heavily on visual themes from Suess’ books.
The music also reflects the wacky theme.
“We have an excellent sound designer, Russell Boiarsky, who does a great job of blending his own compositions and zany sound effects to help bring the production to life,” Bishara says.
The production’s cast of 19 is entirely comprised of central Ohio youths.
If You Go
The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet shows at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 28 and Sept. 4, and 2:30 p.m. Aug. 29 and 30 and Sept. 5 and 6 at the Shedd Theatre, Columbus Performing Arts Center, 549 Franklin Ave. Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the Ohio Theatre Ticket Office at 39 S. State St., Ticketmaster outlets, 614-469-0930 and www.ticketmaster.com.
