OXFORD Castle provided an appropriately eerie aesthetic for Tomahawk Theatre’s triumphant revisit with Shakespeare favourite Romeo and Juliet.

It also complemented the Edwardian styled costumes – all pinstripes and white frocks – while offering a suitably impending sense of doom when the lovers first lock eyes.

And with a running time of two-and-a-half hours, the time flew by – even for the large group of pre-teen schoolchildren who remained fully attentive throughout.

If the chemistry between Romeo (Remi King) and Juliet (Jennifer Robinson) never quite achieved the lust-filled teenage romance one expected, the pair were convincing enough to create an atmosphere of bereavement at their tragic end.

To put the play’s style more in context, the meeting scene between the two for example, showed the couple necking their drinks in order to pluck up enough courage for their first kiss – making for a fresh, comic slant.

And that’s where Tomahawk’s forte lies, in the comic interjections, whether it was bawdy drunken singing or suggestive gestures, all of which elicited laughter. There was also a level of consistent talent, whose energy and enthusiasm carried the whole cast.

Highlights included the bawdy Benvolio (Ivo Gruev), who brought enough crude banter to the role to keep the substantial audience laughing at his every appearance. The nurse (Rachel Wilmshurst) also played the role of Juliet’s confidante with great comic vigour, creating a perfect dynamic between the two.

The more serious moments were achieved with a combination of dynamism and sensitivity, successfully achieving the necessary tension of the family feud, as well as a sense of protection towards the fated pair.

Throw in some seamless and uncomplicated scenes – a feat that director Paul Alex Nicholls should be commended for – because despite the stark and unadorned set, the play successfully manages to deliver the consuming urgency required.

Judging by the opening night, Tomahawk are off to a fantastic start, creating an evening bound to appeal to both Shakespeare enthusiasts and novices alike.

Tomahawk Theatre plays at Oxford Castle until July 18. Wet weather venue available.

For more information visit oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk.