Estonia stages “Romeo and Juliet” using giant trucks instead of actors

Romeo and Juliet, the Shakespearean tragedy that has been told and re-told thousands of times, is finding a new and innovative form in the Estonian “Kinoteater’s” latest production. Rather than actors, the remake is using giant trucks and heavy machinery to tell the story. 

The theatre itself describes the show as “A tragedy of motors played out on a junkyard with the picturesque backdrop of a sand quarry”. The trucks, which spin, perform tricks, and, in some cases, fall from great heights, are being used to convey the emotions often reserved for the traditional play or ballet. 

Romeo is being “played” by a rally truck, while Juliet is a red Ford pickup truck. The rest of the “cast” includes firetrucks, buses, and a cement trucks with hearts painted on it, as well as ten drivers, two mechanics, and a pyrotechnics expert.  

The production is almost wordless, meant to spark the imagination of viewers of all ages. During the show, the trucks extend their mechanical arms to “fight”, emote, and even “kiss”. The performances are accompanied by fireworks and music. The play is set in Rummu limestone quarry, a 45-minute drive south-west from Tallinn. 

"Romula ja Julia" premiered and will be performed six times over the course of the week.