Classical music and theater converge for two nights

Clavelli Music and theater lovers will experience the joy and angst of two of the greatest love stories ever told when the Florida Repertory Theatre and the Southwest Florida Symphony partner to present "Star Crossed Lovers" Saturday, March 7 at 8 pm and Sunday, March 8 at 7 pm at the First Christian Church, 2061 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers, conducted by Maestro Michael Hall.

"This will be a multifaceted performance exploring how Bernstein and Prokofiev interpreted the drama and tragedy of William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," said Maestro Hall. "Scenes from the play will be interspersed with the music of Prokofiev. We are so pleased to collaborate with Florida Rep on this exciting project that will literally bring the music to life for the audience."

Directed by Florida Rep Associate Artistic Director Chris Clavelli, excerpts from Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet" will be performed by Bill Taylor, Michele Damato, title song. Brendan Powers and Jack Benton. Mr. Taylor is a Fort Myers resident who runs Theatre Conspiracy, and was seen at Florida Rep in "Stones in His Pockets" in 2007. Both Ms. Damato and Mr. Powers are familiar faces to Florida Rep audiences, and recently appeared in the critically acclaimed production of "Dancing at Lughnasa," while Mr. Benton is spending the season performing in the Rep's Children's Theatre Series.

Hall One of Prokofiev's best-known dramatic works, "Suite from Romeo and Juliet," was composed in the 1930s and was described as an "opera without words." Set in eight sections, the piece follows the drama of young love and its tragic conclusion featuring Profoviev's distinctive use of the orchestra.

Based loosely on "Romeo and Juliet," "West Side Story" offers a modern-day telling of tragic love with Bernstein's music bringing a new dimension to the classic love story of social and racial strife. Symphonic dance music from "West Side Story" offers the best of Bernstein's beloved music and captures the essence of the story with four movements featuring wonderful dance beats, including the mambo, cha-cha and the bop sound associated with the conflict between the Jets and the Sharks.

Whether you are a first time attendee or a seasoned listener, the pre-concert discussion, hosted by Associate Conductor Joseph Caulkins, takes you back in time to understand the history, dynamics and story of the music. The pre-concert discussion takes place one hour prior to each concert and is free for ticket holders.

Tickets ($15 and up) are available by calling the symphony box office at 418- 1500.