In its ninth season, TCC’s Shakespeare in the Grove has once again brought a tragic classic to life. William Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet is sure to please audiences through out Hampton Roads.

Romeo and Juliet having opened on Chesapeake’s TCC campus last week and now performing at the Roper Center for the Performing Arts in Norfolk through July 8th at 8 p.m. brings community members from all walks of life and some of the returning veterans from years past to perform. ED JACOB, director and faculty of TCC’s theatre department never seems to let us down with a fun and enjoyable evening. Many may know the story of Romeo and Juliet, but for those who don’t or may not be as familiar with Shakespeare and his language, Mr. Jacob has worked, coached and directed his cast to fully understand what the characters are saying and feeling through out the entire piece making this very accessible to even the most novice of novices.

To further assist Mr. Jacob has taken the liberty of making a few cuts that actually assist in moving the play forward and keeping our interest. That which is cut is in many ways redundant and quite often is what causes you to lose your audience.

Though I am not mentioning cast members individually, it is not due to a lacking portrayal or execution of their characters but rather to their ability to truly create an ensemble and not giving us a moment to leave this well written tragedy thinking someone outshined or overshadowed another actor.

My only regret is not getting a chance to see this production out in the Grove. Don’t get me wrong. Whether indoors or outdoors this production is definitely worth seeing. So please head out and catch a cast that is committed, engaging and truly capable of bringing one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies to life.