The famous story of love, romance, and deaths that have changed theater forever, Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet debut this week. The cast and crew who have put in a lot of hard work and dedication for over two months in the production of the show. The play stars junior Alex Richmond as Romeo Montague, junior Tori Orosa as Juliet Capulet,  junior Jonathan Mitchell as Benvolio, sophomore Arjit Roshan as Paris, senior Lexus Van Es as Mercutio, and senior Andy Gaidry as Friar Lawrence.

The hard work began with auditions but for many, it wasn’t hard work at all. The excitement of performing is what drove many to audition. “I like drama. I like acting. I like performing, and I like Shakespeare. I know most  don’t, but I enjoy the language. I auditioned for Mercutio but I got Paris. I still like Paris, “ said sophomore Roshan. Some actors had to  sacrifice other school activities to participate in the show, but discovered it was worth it. “Being in the theater program, I knew there was going to be a fall play  and that would be a big commitment, so I ended up this year dropping out of sports I would have done. I was going to play football, but decided that I’m more of a theater-type guy,” said Richmond.

The cast and crew are getting nervous and excited for opening night “[I’m most excited for] Opening night because the rush of the curtain is the best feeling of it all,” said Mitchell.With everyone anxious for the curtain to rise, some are thinking about their future. “I’m actually thinking about doing a drama minor and then getting into community theater or teaching drama,“ said Orosa. The hard work and dedication of the cast and crew is evident in the set design and costumes as seen in dress rehearsals.

The show premieres on Friday starting at 7 p.m. and Saturday with performances at 2 and 7 p.m.. Admission is $10 to the general public and $7 for students.