Tom Holland’s return to the London stage in Jamie Lloyd’s production of Romeo & Juliet has sparked a range of responses from critics following its opening night at the Duke of York’s Theatre on May 23. The Spider-Man actor, known for his versatility, stepped into the role of Romeo alongside Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet.
Critics, however, offered varying perspectives on the production, with some expressing disappointment at its execution. Tim Bano of The Independent described Holland’s portrayal as a “sad boy in a white vest,” noting his abundant acting skills but criticizing his flat line delivery at times.
Bano’s review lamented Lloyd’s austere aesthetic and the production’s use of live video, which he felt imposed too much on the performances rather than enhancing them. He awarded the production two stars and expressed a desire for more emotional depth in the portrayal of Shakespeare’s classic characters.
In contrast, The Guardian’s Arifa Akbar gave the production three stars and praised the chemistry between Holland and Amewudah-Rivers. She acknowledged their “awkwardly cool teen energy” but raised concerns about Lloyd’s stripped-back approach, which she found puzzling and inhibiting to the play’s emotional resonance.
Similarly, Clive Davis of The Times awarded the production three stars but criticized its muted tone and formulaic execution. While recognizing strong performances from the cast, Davis felt that the production’s use of sound effects and lighting disrupted the flow of the play, leaving the audience perplexed rather than engaged.
Despite the mixed critical reception, Holland’s return to the stage after more than a decade was a highly anticipated moment for theatergoers. His previous West End role in Billy Elliot The Musical in 2008 showcased his talent at a young age, and audiences were eager to see how he would tackle the iconic role of Romeo.
For Holland, the opportunity to delve into Shakespeare’s complex character was a significant challenge and a chance to showcase his growth as an actor. His portrayal of Romeo as a “sad boy” reflects the character’s tumultuous journey through love and tragedy, capturing both his youthful passion and his inner turmoil.
The chemistry between Holland and Amewudah-Rivers as the star-crossed lovers was a highlight of the production, with their interactions bringing depth and authenticity to their characters’ relationship. Their performances, particularly in emotionally charged scenes, resonated with audiences and critics alike.
However, the production’s minimalist approach, characterized by austere aesthetics and unconventional staging choices, divided opinion among critics. While some praised its boldness and innovation, others found it detracted from the emotional impact of Shakespeare’s text.
Overall, Holland’s return to the London stage in Romeo & Juliet was a significant moment in his career, showcasing his versatility and talent as an actor. Despite the mixed critical reception, his performance alongside Amewudah-Rivers received praise for its authenticity and chemistry, marking a memorable chapter in the theatrical adaptation of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy.