This is Not Romeo & Juliet is a powerful performance from the Danish dance company Granhøj Dans exploring love in times of war in Europe, transcending the classic Romeo & Juliet narrative, exploring themes of love and death and the complexity of human relations. It features music by Prokofiev, Mancini, and Gounod. The show’s producer Malco Oliveros tells us what it’s like to taking the show to Edinburgh.
Q&A with Malco Oliveros
How does it feel to be returning to Edinburgh Fringe?
It is just wonderful to be back showing our new work in the framework of such an amazing festival and showcase. It is enjoyable and very useful. This is the third time we participate. The preceding time we had all 4 different former shows in the program of Dancebase.
What can you tell us about your show and its inspiration?
The motif “individuals willing to die for love” as presented in Shakespeare’s script is explored in the show. Contemporary echoes emerged in the process, drawing references to the current war in Europe, that felt intensely close while rehearsing the show in Lithuania, and not the less when performing it in a town at the border with Russia, a few kilometers from Kaliningrad.
How do you think audiences will react to the show?
We cannot predict their reaction, but hope the audience – as in Lituania and Denmark – will enjoy the show with enthusiasm and naturally draw connections to the above named real-world events, adding a layer of depth to their experience of the performance.
How have you been preparing for the festival?
We are prepared but we haven’t have time to make specific preparations. We have been busy touring with other productions, but we count with a strong team at Zoom venues and the #DANISH program coordination that take great care of the PR, communication and the logistics related to our presence at Fringe Festival.
Will you get a chance to enjoy the rest of the festival?
Sure… we intend to see as much as possible of the programme, and take the opportunity to meet fellow artists and the professionals attending the festival.
This is Not Romeo & Juliet is at Zoo Southside from 13 to 18 August
