How familiar are you with the classic tale?
Julie Wee: Pretty familiar. I studied it for “O” Levels and remember reciting the lines out loud. I’ve been rereading my secondary school copy of the play, which is full of colorful notes—I wonder how my 16-year-old self came up with all those interpretations of the text!
How do you get into character?
Hansel Tan: The most awkward thing so far has been growing my hair out, at director Ivan Heng’s request. I hate long hair but for the past two months, I’ve refrained from any trimming or touch-ups. I look like the bastard son of a mop and Justin Bieber.
Any parallels between your love life and that of the characters?
JW: I hope not! Well, I am loyal like Juliet, that’s for sure. Once I’ve committed to you, I’m yours.
What’s the most romantic thing you’ve ever done for someone?
HT: I arranged a sleep-in at a friend’s house for my date. We sat on the couch and watched the documentary Grey Gardens. I even bought a bottle of wine. I was a hipster in my youth.
What do you think of the local theater scene?
HT: The local scene supports tiny gem-like pieces with reflective power that outstrips any Broadway cash-machine. Local theater has the capacity to intimately affect the Singaporean heart. It helps keep us together.
Romeo and Juliet runs from April 12-28 at The Drama Centre, National Library.
