A Rose (Theatre) by any other name...

Shakespeare's classic story of star-cross'd lovers torn apart by bitter rivalry and misplaced honour comes to Edge Hill University's Rose Theatre on Monday, 28 September.

Presented by the aptly named Love & Madness theatre company, Romeo and Juliet is the ultimate tale of teenage passion, revealing the joy and pain of a first romance and the desperate lengths people will go to for true love.

Separated by their warring families, Juliet and Romeo have to hide their love from all but a few trusted friends. But forbidden fruit is always the sweetest and the couple risk everything to be together, waiting through endless, scorching summer days until the secrecy of the night lets them be alone.

The young lovers marry in secret in the naïve hope that the union will reconcile their parents but, as the long hot summer drags on, passions boil over and violence brings a tragic end to their happiness. Lust turns to bloodlust, passion to fiery anger and Romeo and Juliet's innocence is lost forever.

Shakespeare's celebrated play combines romance, comedy and tragedy to create one of the most enduring love stories ever written. The couple's youthful passion is set in stark contrast against the corruption and violence of the adult world. Their devotion to each other and simple belief that love can conquer all only highlights the futility of the endless feud between the Capulets and the Montagues. A senseless battle that is only ended by a senseless death.

Romeo and Juliet is directed by Owen Horsley who joins Love & Madness from the Cheek by Jowl theatre company. Horsley's recent production of Edward II opened to critical and audience acclaim in London.

Love & Madness is one of the UK's leading touring companies. They are renowned for their fresh, accessible productions which aim to bring classical theatre to a younger and wider audience.

Romeo and Juliet is part of a double-header by Love & Madness under the title Pains of Youth. The five-strong ensemble cast are also appearing in 60s kitchen sink drama A Taste of Honey, a modern story of forbidden love and teenage angst which sits perfectly alongside Shakespeare's classic. A Taste of Honey will be showing at the Rose Theatre next season.

Performances at 1.30pm and 7.30pm and tickets £8.50/£6.50 concessions.

For more information contact the Rose Theatre box office on 01695 58 4480.