Intermission Youth Theatre Redefines Romeo and Juliet with a Modern, Inclusive Twist

At Chelsea Theatre in southwest London, anticipation fills the air as Intermission Youth Theatre prepares for the debut of its innovative production, Juliet & Romeo. The charity engages young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to perform Shakespeare, offering a transformative experience both on and off the stage. With rehearsals in full swing, the cast balances long days at school, work, or college with their passion for the arts.

A Radical Approach
Led by artistic director Darren Raymond, the production flips traditional narratives, placing the iconic Romeo and Juliet in a contemporary London setting, complete with references to COVID-19 and the Black Lives Matter movement. The cast, predominantly Black, brings their own experiences to the story, which opens in a modern-day testing centre.

Raymond, who founded the group in 2008, envisioned it as a way to give back to communities with high levels of deprivation, like the one he grew up in. His work has drawn the support of renowned actor Mark Rylance, a trustee of the charity, who runs masterclasses and provides mentorship.

Why It Matters
Rylance praises Intermission’s “non-precious” approach to Shakespeare, which encourages young actors to breathe life into the text. The cast has spent nearly a year exploring and shaping the play—a stark contrast to the rushed schedules of professional theatre. This freedom allows for creativity and a deep connection to the material.

Shakespeare, as Rylance notes, resonates with the times: Juliet & Romeo’s themes of quarantine and societal tension mirror modern struggles. Reflecting on his own experiences performing Shakespeare during pivotal moments, Rylance says the Bard’s work continually intersects with current events, offering profound insights into human nature.

Breaking Barriers in the Arts
For many participants, Intermission represents their first foray outside their local communities. The experience builds confidence, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging. Raymond and Rylance both emphasise the importance of addressing systemic inequality in the arts. A 2020 study revealed that feelings of exclusion often deter non-white performers from pursuing careers in theatre.

“We need grassroots initiatives like this,” Rylance says, drawing parallels to investment in youth sports that transformed British Olympic success. Raymond echoes this sentiment, calling for better funding to ensure equitable access to the arts.

A Call for Change
Both leaders stress that real progress requires tackling inequities at their root. “It’s not just about changing the face of theatre,” Rylance explains. “It’s about ensuring the system reflects the society we live in.” Raymond adds, “The Black community has been ignored for centuries. It’s time to change that.”

Juliet & Romeo is more than a play; it’s a movement for inclusivity, creativity, and empowerment—proof that Shakespeare’s stories still have the power to inspire and unite, reimagined for a new generation.