A Tale of “Woah”: Duel Reality is High-Wire Romeo & Juliet Hijinks at STC
From the moment Duel Reality begins at Harman Hall, it’s clear: this is Shakespeare like you’ve never seen before. A daring hybrid of circus, theater, and dance, this high-energy reinvention of Romeo and Juliet by Montreal’s renowned troupe The 7 Fingers will have you on the edge of your seat… and smiling at an atypical ending.
Instead of swords and soliloquies, director Shana Carroll gives audiences aerialists and athletes; Star-crossed lovers launch into literal leaps of faith above the audience, while ground-based performers tumble, sprint, and collide in a frenzied gladiatorial dance that depicts the Montague–Capulet blood rivalry as a theatrical sporting event in an acrobatic arena.
At a brisk 80 minutes with no intermission, the production zips — and zags — with audiences caught up in the fervor… swept from one stunt to the next before realizing they’re holding their breath (when not gasping in awe).
While it’s unconventional, this Duel Reality version of Romeo & Juliet works like a jolt of adrenaline, engaging audiences of all ages with high-voltage drama, moments of supreme skill, athleticism, and even vulnerability.
The tension of the stunts mirrors the story’s emotional core, causing every throw, lift, and tumble to ring with more meaning.
And while the Bard was known for his words, Duel Reality instead chooses embodiment over elocution, suggesting that stories can be told through bodies as powerfully as through speech. Even without much dialogue, however, echoes of Shakespeare remain: familial vendettas, impulsive love, and youthful defiance underscore every stunt.
If you’re only going to see one summer show on stage this year, Duel Reality is it. This jaw-dropping, heart-racing spectacle delivers Shakespeare in motion. On stage through July 20, 2025, limited tickets still available.
Duel Reality continues through July 20 at Sidney Harman Hall (610 F St NW). Visit the Shakespeare Theatre Company box office or website for tickets. Youth pricing, single-run performances—expect a sold-out arena soon.