LOCAL teenager and member of Frome Drama Club, Anabella Hargrieve, will be appearing in Romeo & Juliet next month at Cleeve House in Seend.
Annabella, 17, will be playing the role of Juliet in the Shakespeare Live production of the famous play, which sets the story in mid-Victorian London.
“Playing Juliet really feels like a gift,” said Annabella. “The cast and creative team are all so enthusiastic and Shakespeare Live has such an excellent reputation that I consider myself very fortunate to be part of it. Cleeve House is such a gorgeous setting. What could be more perfect than to watch one of Shakespeare’s most-loved plays whilst enjoying a summer picnic? The set and the costumes are all so beautiful – the directors have chosen to set it in Victorian London and that promises to be fascinating.”
About her time with Frome Drama Club, Annabella said, “I first performed in Frome with Spellbound at The Memorial Theatre and have since been involved in many Christmas and summer shows at The Merlin. I was given the role of Clara in last year’s Merlin Christmas show, The Nutcracker. Christmas shows are always good fun to be involved with and the Merlin’s show is so popular, so it was such a privilege to be involved.
“I was lucky enough to be cast as Eliza in Frome Drama Club’s production of Pygmalion last November which I really enjoyed. In fact it was because of the support of my friends from Frome Drama Club, in particular Laurence Parnell, that I heard about Shakespeare Live and he encouraged me to audition to play Juliet. I look forward to the monthly play readings that Frome Drama Club organise. It is a great way to meet lots of talented and theatre-loving people and learn about new plays.”
A spokesperson for Shakespeare Live said, “This is an original and exciting production, with the lovers played by brilliant actors both still in their teens, spectacular fights, several parts traditionally for men being played by women as women, and a circus ringmaster representing the forces of Fate who manipulates events till tragedy is the only possible outcome.
“The dates are 8th – 13th July with seven performances, six at 8pm and a Saturday matinee at 2pm. As always, the audience get to sit under cover in the large tiered stand, with clear views from every seat, while the actors (if necessary!) get wet! Picnics beforehand, copious Pimm’s, Gala Night entertainment, etc, are all as usual. Not only that, but Cleeve House offers B&B if anyone would prefer not to drive home after the show.
“Tickets are £17.50 except for the Gala at £22.50, with £5 discount for students and under 19s. There are a few groundling places at £10/£15 in front of the stand. Tickets and all details from www.shakespeare live.com / 07780 938107.”
