The Jamie Lloyd Company announced earlier in the year that Tom Holland and Francesca Amewudah-Rivers would lead ‘Romeo & Juliet’ in West End.
Holland revealed the production’s start this week by sharing a photo of him, Amewudah-Rivers, and Michael Balogun on stage. He followed that post with another image of the cast and crew on Instagram. The caption read:
“Tonight was the start of something so special. I’m beyond proud of our cast and crew who have gone above and beyond in every way. I can’t wait for the rest of the run. Tonight was truly a highlight of my career and I’m so glad I get to share it with these incredible people. Love you all and see you tomorrow!”
The Team Is Defending The Actress Against Criticism
Holland’s latest post referred to the backlash against the casting of a black actress for the role of Juliet. Hundreds of actors previously signed an open letter against the online racism.
The Jamie Lloyd Company also criticized the ‘deplorable racial abuse online directed towards a member of our company.’ Its statement didn’t openly name Francesca Amewudah-Rivers but went on:
“This must stop. We are working with a remarkable group of artists. We insist that they are free to create work without facing online harassment.”
‘Romeo & Juliet’ is currently running at the Duke of Yorks’ Theatre in London. The play will last until August 3.
