Young Stars Prepare for a Modern Rendition of Romeo and Juliet
Noah Jupe and Sadie Sink, both rising stars in the acting world, are engaging in a light-hearted comparison of their theatrical backgrounds. “Noah has more Shakespeare experience than me, for sure,” Sink remarks, to which Jupe agrees, revealing he has delivered “quite a few” lines of Shakespeare, notably playing Hamlet at just 19 in Chloé Zhao’s Oscar-nominated film Hamnet.
However, Jupe admits his early experience with Shakespeare was less than enthusiastic. “In school, it was taught in a way that felt too dry and intellectual. There was no passion,” he recalls. Yet, as he sits alongside noted director Robert Icke, he finds himself in a completely different context during rehearsals for Romeo and Juliet.
Sink, primarily recognized for her role as Max Mayfield in Stranger Things, acknowledges that the world of Shakespeare was never on her radar—at least not this early in her career. Yet, after her initial encounter with Icke, she was invigorated. “I had this gut feeling that I needed to do this right now,” she says, reflecting on her decision.
Icke, who previously directed a praised yet unfinished production of Romeo and Juliet in 2012, views this new version as an opportunity to delve deeper into the material. “It’s an incredible role,” he explains. “Few people get the chance to embody Juliet at a young age.”
The upcoming production marks Jupe’s stage debut, an endeavor he approaches with youthful exuberance. “In film, we don’t often get to utilize our voices this way,” he shares. “When it clicks, it feels like flying.” Meanwhile, Sink’s extensive background—having debuted in Broadway’s Annie at only 10—sets a firm foundation for her return to the stage after years focused on TV.
Their chemistry as co-leads is palpable, forged through rigorous rehearsals and a shared understanding of the unique challenges young actors face. Jupe notes, “It’s rare to work with someone your age who’s gone through similar experiences.” Both actors credit their families for their successful transitions into acting. Sink’s family relocated to New Jersey to support her career, while Jupe’s lineage in the arts has guided him from an early age.
As they prepare for their roles, Sink reflects on the nature of young love portrayed in the play, particularly amidst the modern landscape of dating apps and social media. “It’s encouraging to explore a relationship like Romeo and Juliet, even with its tragic end,” she comments.
Icke hopes to create a production that captures the unpredictability of youthful passion while acknowledging how contemporary audiences perceive love and relationships. “Many focus on the feud between the Montagues and Capulets, but the heart of the story is chance and coincidence,” he emphasizes.
With Jupe’s upcoming film appearances alongside Hugh Jackman and Benedict Cumberbatch, and Sink’s mysterious role in the Marvel universe, both actors are poised for significant careers. Icke, reflecting on his personal evolution since his first production, notes, “I’m now a parent, which deepens my understanding of the parental conflict in this play.”
The anticipation for this new take on Romeo and Juliet is building. The play opens at the Harold Pinter Theatre in London from March 18 to June 20, promising a fresh and engaging interpretation of Shakespeare’s timeless tale.
Source: Original Source
