The show, which will run from April 23 to April 26 at Hackney Empire, blends Shakespeare’s original text with rap, R&B, and spoken word.
It is a co-production between the Belgrade Theatre Coventry and Bristol Old Vic.
The production features original music by That’s A Rap and A Class.
Ellena Vincent as Montague and Ayesha Patel as Rosalind rehearsing for a bold reimagining of Romeo and Juliet (Image: Nicola Young)
Elijah Raheem Aduu (known as ERA), Mark Holder, and D’evante Seepaul-Craig, who developed their skills through Hackney Empire’s Creative Futures programme, will perform as part of the professional theatre tour.
Elijah Raheem Aduu (ERA) said: “When I got sent the soundtrack, I fell in love with it immediately.
“I’ve been listening to it non-stop, and at this point, I just can’t wait to play.”
Mark Holder added: “Being on ADP showed me how theatre works.
“Now, I can use that experience to move forward with confidence.
“Hackney Empire has developed my leadership skills and musicianship.
“It’s really great to have had people who have faith in me—now I can have faith in myself and take these opportunities.”
The musicians will be mentored by Joseph Roberts, director of Hackney Empire’s Community Choir.
Joseph Roberts said: “I work with the young musicians of today so they can have a tomorrow, by giving them the best head start in the business of music.”
Hackney Empire has announced an additional 2pm matinee performance on April 26 as part of their ‘Entry for All’ scheme, which provides free tickets for anyone aged 25 and under and those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to attend.
Lorna McGinty, head of learning and participation at Hackney Empire, said: “This co-production is a really special collaboration for us at Hackney Empire as it brings together so many important elements of our work.
“We are proud to be celebrating so many local creatives and young people through this production.”
The show features Mia Khan as Juliet and Kyle Ndukuba as Romeo.
