SYDNEY FRINGE: IN THE SLAUGHTERHOUSE OF LOVE

The latest reincarnation of Shakespeare’s heartbreaking tragedy is like a Cornetto, all fun and no boring bits. In the Slaughterhouse of Love: Romeo and Juliet is the theatrical lovechild of No White Elephants production team, Erica Brennan and Amanda Laing. This is the most passionate and erotic reincarnation of Romeo and Juliet yet, created by two young women working in advertising and real estate respectively. This production is exuberantly physical and engaging, and inspired by the work of a thirteenth century poet. In A Dove in the Eaves, Jelaluddin Rumi declares, “Whoever’s not killed for love is dead meat.” “The moment we read that poem,” Brennan remembers, “it was twin souls.” But what really sets this production apart is that there are three Romeos and three Juliets. Brennan explained that multiple and interchanging identities create a space for the audience to feel more strongly. “By letting it pass through different bodies, you open up the potential for a lot more people to connect. It takes the production away from the literal place, and hits you on an emotion, visceral level. ” With a cast of dedicated performers, the production aims to please with an entirely original concept, costumes and music. So why not enter the Slaugtherhouse? You don’t necessarily have to die for love, but it might be fun to watch those who do.

Sep 21-26, The Greek Theatre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville, $20-24, thesydneyfringe.com.au

BY MILLICENT CAFFREY