NY Classical Goes Global:
Romeo & Juliet in Prague

In July and August 2025, New York Classical Theatre brought its signature Panoramic Theatre style to an international audience for the first time, restaging our 2018 production of Romeo & Juliet in Prague as part of the Prague Shakespeare Company’s Summer Shakespeare Intensive. Staged outdoors in the beautiful Kampa Park along the Vltava River, this collaboration marked NY Classical’s first international and second-ever out-of-state performance, offering students and audiences from around the world the opportunity to experience our immersive, actor-driven approach to Shakespeare.

Artistic Director Stephen Burdman helmed the production, working alongside longtime Artistic Associates Ian Gould and Clay Storseth, both reprising their original roles. They were joined by rising talents Alyssa Morales, Levi Srebalus, Zara Warburton, and NYC based actor Kevin Vavasseur—a diverse, international ensemble of young actors who brought fresh vitality and depth to this timeless tragedy. Board Member and Artistic Associate Nick Salamone also traveled to Prague, providing dramaturgical support and creative consultation.

In addition to their onstage work, Stephen, Ian, Clay, and Nick led a series of masterclasses for program participants, covering topics such as comedy in Shakespeare, playwriting, queering the canon, building a career in the U.S. theatre scene, and the directorial process. These workshops deepened the artistic exchange at the heart of the collaboration and fostered meaningful cross-cultural dialogue.

Cast

• Ian Gould: Tybalt, Nurse, Friar Francis

• Clay Storseth: Gregory, Montague, Prince Escalus, Paris, Time

• Alyssa Morales: Sampson, Juliet

• Levi Srebalus: Abraham, Romeo

• Zara Warburton: Benvolio, Lady Capulet, Friar John

• Kevin Vavasseur: Balthazar, Capulet, Mercutio

Creative Team

• Costume Design: Zara Warburton

• Fight Direction: Olivia Willcox

• Stage Manager: Rowen Bailey

• Founder & Artistic Director, Prague Shakespeare Company: Guy Roberts

• Producer, Prague Shakespeare Company: Jessica Boone

We are especially grateful to our friends at Prague Shakespeare Company for their generous invitation and partnership in making this experience possible. Together, we created something truly special—a cross-border celebration of art, language, and community.

Check out rehearsal photos below!