“But soft! What light through yonder window breaks?”

Find out the answer to this question and many more as NDSU Theatre presents a contemporary telling of William Shakespeare’s classic “Romeo and Juliet” Thursday through Saturday, and March 2-5 in Askanase Hall.

Everyone has heard some telling of the famous Romeo and Juliet story, whether it be “West Side Story,” “Gnomeo and Juliet,” “Warm Bodies” or that one episode of “Avatar the Last Airbender.”

Two families/groups are feuding, but youth from each side inexplicably catch sight of each other and fall in love against all odds. Death, fighting, secret visitations and long speeches about love are sprinkled through many scenes in this iconic story.

With a tale as old as time, several may wonder how this tale is still relevant in 2016. The themes of young love, tragedy and rooting on the underdogs all coalesce to have the audience rooting for the two main characters despite all odds.

In this contemporary retelling of the classic Shakespearean tragedy, swords are replaced with flashlights and police batons. This makes for a gritty tale reflecting upon modern issues.

Though we may remember from ninth grade English that Romeo and Juliet meet their untimely end due to a misunderstanding, it does not stop the viewer from wondering what could have been. It is the drama leading up to the climax that truly encapsulates the audience.

Seeing Romeo and Juliet in the theater will be a great experience for those who have not seen it performed live before. While most, if not all of us, read this complex, intriguing play in high school English, it is much different when actors inhabit the characters just a few feet in front of your face. The emotion held in each phrase is much clearer and really tugs on the heartstrings of the audience.

Ticket Information:

When: 7:30 p.m., Feb. 25-27 & March 2-5

Where: Askanase Auditorium

Price: Free with Student ID

More Info: Event website