Rockwall HS Brings "Romeo and Juliet" to Life Inside a Museum

“Romeo and Juliet” is a timeless classic loved by generations of audiences. The Rockwall High School Jackets Act invites the community to experience the Shakespeare classic in a new way — inside a museum.

Watch history come to life as characters appear like pieces of an exhibit. As the story unfolds, they come to life before the audience.

“What I really love about that concept is that it allows us to look at ‘Romeo and Juliet’ as a story that has been preserved and retold for generations,” said Virginia McGuire, Rockwall High School Head Director. “[We want] the audience to feel like they’re not just watching a famous Shakespeare play — they’re discovering the story for themselves.”

Planning for opening day takes months of preparation, from set design to costumes to the backstage crew. Putting together a play is much bigger than the actors seen onstage. Approximately 60 students are working together, with each role critical to telling the same story.

“When an audience comes to see ‘Romeo and Juliet’, they’re really seeing the work of an entire community of students,” said McGuire.

Junior Ava B. prepared for the role of Juliet by watching previous productions to really understand the character.

“Since my first production, I’ve gained so much confidence both on and off stage,” she said.

Ava’s counterpart, junior Gunner H., said reading Shakespeare has helped him learn the language style in preparation for the role of Romeo. For Gunner, the theatre program means more to him than just the stage.

“My confidence and range have grown tremendously,” he said. “It’s a community where you find lifelong friends and good role models.”          

“Romeo and Juliet” will be performed at the Rockwall High School Little Theatre at 7 p.m. on Oct. 8-9, and at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Oct. 10. Tickets are available for purchase at www.jacketsact.com/tickets.