It was finally here, the show we’ve all been waiting for. After a decade of sold out dates in London, the critically acclaimed Backyard Cinema Romeo+Juliet show FINALLY came to Manchester – and where better to host this truly special screening of the greatest love story ever told, than Manchester’s Albert Hall.
DISCOVERING BACKYARD CINEMA
If you haven’t heard of Backyard Cinema before, where have you been? It’s the ultimate alternative cinema experience, as they put it “reinventing what it means to see a movie” but it’s even more than that. Going along to this particular event at the Albert Hall is no ordinary night at the flicks…
MANCHESTER’S ALBERT HALL
There’s definitely something special about the location; here it plays host to the most romantic tale in history, this forgotten Wesleyan chapel is THE perfect backdrop. Right in the heart of the city of Manchester, it was restored and resurrected mainly for live music events and it’s exactly what you get here! For while you get to enjoy the picture, it is bolstered by an impressive live choir and musicians, and just like that you are swept off your feet and transported to Verona…
LIVE MUSIC
The night was a huge celebration of Shakespeare’s classic. But Baz Luhrmann’s acclaimed 1996 cult classic take on the tragedy continues to delight audiences. Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes both star in the iconic lead roles. All screened under the stained glass windows and amongst candle-lit aisles, I found it quite easy to fall in love with the film all over again. The stunning live interpretations of songs from the classic soundtrack included Everybody’s Free, Kissing You, Doves Cry – and personal favourite Young Hearts Run Free.
MOVIE EXPERIENCE WITH A DIFFERENCE
The Priest leading the whole procession is in particular fine form. As you switch from the film to the live performance before you, the lines of what is present in the room and what is on screen blur to great effect. It’s clear why Backyard Cinema have now screened to over half a million customers. And what’s more – I can’t wait to see what they’ll do next! It really is a movie experience like no other.
FINAL SCORE
10/10 – Everything about this was perfectly executed, an amazing experience for a well-seasoned cinema goer. It gives me a fresh perspective on a film I’ve seen a thousand times… Enhancing my love for the original film! With incredible performances on-screen backed up by more of the same with the live music and a beautiful setting… It all makes for a wonderful night all-round!