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Redefining Juliet

Storme Toolis

— ,The Pit

A frank and gutsy retelling of a classic in which three actors share the role of Juliet, each owning Shakespeare’s heroine for themselves while challenging universal ideas of beauty and sexuality.

Weaving text from Romeo and Juliet with hard-hitting stories from women whose femininity and authenticity have been questioned by society, Redefining Juliet celebrates difference to prove that anyone can play the iconic part.

Appearing regularly on British television, Storme Toolis has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair. Inspired by a desire to portray Juliet herself, she collaborates with other performers who have felt like outsiders to bring multiple dimensions to the famed romantic lead. Featuring key scenes from the play, interspersed with resonant details of the actors’ personal lives, this is an empowering production, both joyous and sad, shot through with wit.

 

Tagged with: Theatre & dance The Art Of Change

Duration: 1 hour
Age guidance: 14+

Thu 29 Nov, 7.45pm
BSL-interpreted and post-show talk

Fri 30 Nov, 7:45pm
BSL-interpreted and audio-described

Developed in collaboration with the Barbican and the RSC

Creative team

  • Storme Toolis   Artistic and Creative Director
  • Robin Norton Hale   Director
  • Sammy Glover   Assistant Director
  • Kate Lane   Designer
  • Joe Price   Lighting Designer
  • Ellie Keel   Producer
  • Alia-Michelle Supron   Hair and Make up

Actors

  • Athena Stevens  
  • James Le Lacheur  
  • Lara Steward  

Freesheet

A group of people sat in a circle

Redefining Roles

We asked the cast and creative team behind 'Redefining Juliet' which other 'female' figures from theatre, film or history they would like reimagine.

Read article

Watch: About Redefining Juliet (BBC)

Broadcast on BBC Four in 2016, watch this short documentary following creative director and wheelchair user Storme Toolis and her group of actors through the rehearsal process of their theatrical production to the Barbican.

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The Pit

Location
The Pit is located on Level -2 within the main Barbican building and can be accessed via the stairs or lifts on Level G, next to the doors to the Lakeside Terrace. 

Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS

Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.