Stafford's Gatehouse Theatre was awash with famous faces earlier this month as all the actors involved in this year's Stafford Festival Shakespeare production of Romeo and Juliet arrived for a pre-show get together before rehearsals start. Opening night is Thursday June 30 and the play runs until Saturday July 16. Headlining this year, in the title roles, are former Coronation Street star Bruno Langley and ex-Eastender Scarlett Johnson.

At the meet and greet event at the Gatehouse Scarlett said: "This is a dream role for me that I have always longed to play, so I'm very excited."

Bruno said: "It's a bit daunting as you really want to get your character right, but we have lots of time to rehearse our lines so I think it will be a really good show."

Rehearsals for the 18 cast members started on Monday June 6 and director Peter Dayson said: "The company this year contains some amazing talent."

Tickets for the open air production at Stafford Castle are on sale now from Stafford Gatehouse Theatre box office on 01785 254653.

All shows start at 8pm, except for two matinees on Monday July 4 (schools) and Saturday July 9, which both begin at 2pm.

Prices range from £12.50 to £18.50.

© icStafford, 15/6/05

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