Promo Image Unveiled For New ROMEO & JULIET

A romantic and flowery promotional image for the forthcoming Broadway revival of William Shakespeare's seminal tragedy Romeo & Juliet has been unveiled, featuring the attractive stars of the forthcoming David Leveaux-directed production posing alluringly.

Orlando Bloom and Condola Rashad headline the production in the title roles of the classic star-crossed lovers, while it was announced earlier this week that featured parts will be filled out by Christian Camargo, Justin Guarini and Roslyn Ruff in addition to the previously announced Jayne Houdyshell, Chuck Cooper and Brent Carver.

Producers of the new racially diverse production have addressed the casting conceit, stating: "In this new production, the members of the Montague household will be white, and the blood relatives of the Capulet family will be black. While race defines the family lineages, the original cause of the 'ancient quarrel', passed down by successive generations to their young, has been lost to time. Shakespeare's dramatization of the original poem sets the two young lovers in a context of prejudice, authoritarian parents, and a never ending cycle of 'revenge.' Against this background, the strength of their love changes the world."

UPDATE: Producers have just informed BroadwayWorld that an official poster is forthcoming and this image is being used for promotional purposes only.

Romeo & Juliet begins previews August 24 and is set to open September 19.

More information on Romeo & Juliet is available at the official site here.

View a larger version of the promotional image for Romeo & Juliet below.