The classic love tale, Romeo and Juliet was fantastically depicted in a break-dance style performance by the Jibilika Dance Trust at the Brickhill Dome on the first day of Shoko Festival 2015.
The cast comprised of three men and a lady. These four frequently rotated roles so that there was no telling who would be the next character. What added awe to the story was the use of a narrator to tell the story, which made you feel as if you were watching a film.
Another thing that added to the performance was the use of occasional African music and dance. With this, the director of the dance ensured that the audience could relate the play to their own environment and understanding.
“The story of the Montagues and the Capulets is one of the most famous stories in the world. The story was told in a good and exciting manner that is different. I loved the performance,” said Leona, who was part of the audience.
It was exciting to see most of the themes evident in the play we all know so well also being depicted in the dance; from sadness to romance, comedy to tragedy, the dance off effectively touched on all of these themes, aided by the music.
“I believe we did justice to the play. We did what we rehearsed and it came out well,” said the only female cast member, Noni.
The director of the dance/play, Tafadzwa Hananda, who was also the narrator said of the performance, “The cast really did well and I believe the performance was captivating and exciting.”
