Aquila Theatre Company New York/London returns for its seventh year to open the Rose Lehrman Arts Center's 2006-2007 season on Sunday, October 1 at 3pm. The company will perform William Shakespeare's drama Romeo and Juliet at the RLAC theatre at the Harrisburg Campus of HACC - Central Pennsylvania's Community College. The media partner for the show is Central PA Magazine. Aquila company members will present a post-show talkback immediately following the performance.

Romeo and Juliet has stood the test of time as one of the greatest love stories ever told. The compelling events that unfold out of the ancient rift between two great Italian families makes Shakespeare's story as gripping and dynamic to a contemporary audience as it was to Londoners 400 years ago. Set in the vibrant city of Verona, the famous "star-crossed" teenage lovers follow their passion for each other against all odds in an ultimately tragic but beautiful story of eternal love.

The Aquila Theatre Company's new production of Romeo and Juliet will utilize their highly talented British and American ensemble, to create a stylistic adaptation that will focus on the major themes of the story and bring the text to vivid life. The eloquent language in Romeo and Juliet articulates some of the most exquisite poetry ever written and the flamboyant and often complex characters such as Mercutio and the Nurse provide some of the most expertly drawn personages in Shakespeare.

Aquila Theatre Company, founded in London in 1991 by Peter Meineck, has gained a well-earned international reputation as one of the foremost producers of touring classical theatre. Aquila's excellent British/American ensemble of professional actors brings their unique experience, dedication and creativity to major stages across America. The company has won both critical and academic acclaim for its work worldwide, which includes extensive touring throughout Europe, the United States and Canada.

This engagement of Aquila Theatre Company of New York/London is a Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation's Mid Atlantic Tours program in partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts Regional Touring Program.

Romeo and Juliet will be presented at 3pm, Sunday, October 1 followed by a talkback with members of the cast. Tickets for Aquila Theatre's Romeo and Juliet are $27 for adults and $20 for students and senior citizens. Early reservations are recommended. The Box Office phone is 717-231-ROSE (7673). Tickets are also available online at the Website below.