Short introduction

What happens when love crosses a line society has drawn? Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy moves from Verona to post-war Berlin, where competing loyalties, new freedoms and a divided city shape the lives of two young people. Through theatre, dance and stage combat, ISH students explore identity, prejudice, independence and the consequences of conflicts inherited from adults.

A student production by the International School of Hamburg, performed in English.

What happens when love crosses a line that society has drawn?

The International School of Hamburg's Theatre Department presents William Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet, performed from 17 to 19 November 2026.

This year, Shakespeare's most famous love story moves from the streets of Verona to the divided city of Berlin in the 1950s. Against the backdrop of Cold War tensions, political divisions and a generation discovering new freedoms, two young people fall in love across boundaries they did not create.

In a city where loyalties are demanded, identities are prescribed and crossing to the other side carries consequences, Romeo and Juliet's struggle to determine their own future takes on a new significance.

The production explores themes that remain strikingly relevant to young people today: belonging, independence, prejudice, family expectations and the courage to question the world they inherit.

Bringing together ISH students in a collaborative theatrical production, Romeo & Juliet continues the school's tradition of presenting ambitious, thought-provoking theatre.

The course of true love never did run smooth. Especially in a divided city.

We warmly invite the Hamburg community to join us for this new interpretation of a timeless tragedy.