Tom’s Holland’s West End production of Romeo and Juliet has been marred by vile racist abuse, forcing producers to speak out.
The Jamie Lloyd Company’s version of the Shakespeare classic, which stars Francesca Amewudah-Rivers as Juliet and Spider-Man star, Tom, as Romeo makes it debut at the Duke of York theatre in central London in May. However, sadly, one of its cast has been the target of a ‘barrage of deplorable racist abuse’ – before stepping foot onto the stage.
Taking to Instagram, insisting it will do everything it can to protect its actors, The Jamie Lloyd Company has released a statement, saying: “Following the announcement of our Romeo & Juliet cast, there has been a barrage of deplorable racial abuse directed towards a member of our company. We are working with a remarkable group of artists. We insist that they are free to create work without facing online harassment. We will continue to support and protect everyone in our company at all costs. Any abuse will not be tolerated and will be reported.” The post concludes the company’s rehearsal room is one of “joy, compassion and kindness”.
While the production team does not mention actress Francesca by name, there have been some vicious comments circulating on social media regarding her casting in the titular role of the play.
The stage actress has appeared in School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play, as well as other productions of Shakespeare plays including Othello and Macbeth. But playing Juliet alongside Holland’s Romeo will mark her West End debut. When her casting was announced, she said: “I’m excited to bring a fresh energy to this story alongside Tom, and to welcome new audiences to the theatre.”
Meanwhile, the production marks Hollywood heartthrob Tom’s return to the stage, having previously starred in Billy Elliot The Musical when he was young. Speaking of his joy at being cast in the role, he said: “Beyond excited to announce our cast for Romeo and Juliet. I can’t wait to get started and I know we’ll create something really special together.” Producer Jamie Lloyd added: “I’m very excited to introduce the amazing cast who will be joining the incredible Tom Holland in Romeo & Juliet, including Francesca Amewudah-Rivers — an exceptional young artist.”
Romeo & Juliet, which is at the Duke of York’s Theatre from May 11-Aug 3, is already sold out. However, on Wednesday April 10 at 10am there will be a further sale of 5000 tickets available at £25 exclusively for under-30s, key workers and those receiving government benefits.
Freema Agyeman, Joshua-Alexander Williams, Michael Balogun, Tomiwa Edu, Mia Jerome, Daniel Quinn-Toye, Ray Sesay and Nima Taleghani also star in the eagerly-awaited production.
The Mirror has contacted The Jamie Lloyd Company for further comment on this story.
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