Viterbo will present William Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy Romeo and Juliet at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7 and Saturday, Oct. 8 and at 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 9 in the Fine Arts Center Main Theatre.

“Romeo and Juliet is one the most classic love stories of all time,” said Matthew Campbell, the Viterbo faculty member who is directing the production. “It transcends time and place. We all understand it. It is ingrained in our literature, society, and folklore.”

The story of star-crossed lovers, forbidden passion, and family strife, Romeo and Juliet is Shakespeare’s most produced play and one of literature’s greatest tragedies. This Viterbo production will be performed by an all female cast in an innovative “hyper-theatrical” style. Campbell described the setting as “Civil War meets hipster.” Many of the actors and musicians performing original music will be on stage throughout the performance.

“In Shakespeare’s day, his plays were often performed in what is known as “original practice” in that males played all the parts,” Campbell said. “We’re flipping that around and having women play all the parts. That challenges our actors in new ways, while still providing captivating storytelling.”

Students Caleigh Havansek and Jonathan Woodruff are serving as the assistant director and fight choreographer, respectively. The production stars Anna Hermanson as Romeo and Ava Bush as Juliet.

This performance is part of Viterbo’s Bright Star Season and is sponsored by US Bank. WKBT News 8 is the media sponsor.

Visit the box office for tickets.