Task 1: Time Period and Setting

Before you consider how you want to set up the Capulet's party.  Let's first decide what time period the party will take place in.  This will affect all of the other aspects of the party. 1996's film Romeo and Juliet takes place present day while retaining the language of Shakespeare.  Click here to view several clips from the 1996 film version.   Be sure to watch the "First Sight" and "First Kiss" clips because Romeo and Juliet are at the costume ball.  After that view the DVD extra of the director's commentary to listen to Baz Luhrman speak about the various interpretations of Romeo and Juliet. Consider the following points: 1. Costumes -Does the choice of costumes add to the scene? 2. Music -What is the genre of music? - How does the music influence the scene? 3. Setting -What is the overall tone of the scene as a result of the set pieces? -Where do Romeo and Juliet first meet each other and why does the director choose this location?

After that take a look at the 1968 film version by Franco Zefferelli.  Click here and scroll down to where it says pictures to look at Zefferelli's interpretation of the costume ball. Look here to see a comparison between the 1996 and 1968 film versions. What are the similarities and what are the differences? Which time period and setting best reflects what you think Shakespeare intended for Romeo and Juliet?  Is there a "best" time period or setting? Once you decide what time period the party will take place in decide on the setting of the party: Will the party take place inside or outside? What is the general theme of the party and why? After you have decided on a time period and setting produce write a 200 word explanation for your time period and sketch.  Include images from the internet to convey the setting of the party. After this is completed go on to Task 2.

Introduction Task 1 Task 2 Task 3 Task 4