The Olentangy High School theater group will present "Romeo and Juliet" at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 6-7, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, in the high school's new theater, 675 Lewis Center Road, Lewis Center.

Drama director Sarah Tobin said the tragic love story was selected in part to let students experience the play they read in freshman English classes.

"It's such a fascinating play and Shakespeare is a beautiful poet. I want students to realize that and see its value," Tobin said in an e-mail.

Senior Blake Sheldon plays Romeo, who falls in love with Juliet. He said Romeo's various passions and emotions are a challenge to depict.

"(Romeo) never really has a normal attitude," Sheldon said in an e-mail. "It's always something different, in love, furious, happy, sad, sarcastic. ... I really like how passionate and emotional Romeo gets. It's really sharpening my (acting) skills."

Senior Brit McKinley portrays Juliet and also finds the character's range of emotion a good challenge.

"She is so innocent and content in the beginning of the show, but by the end she has experienced love and has grown into her own," McKinley said in an e-mail. "She realizes her ability to make decisions for herself, and though her story is tragic, it's also inspiring. I love being able to tell her story."

"Greatly needed comedic relief" is brought by Juliet's nurse and confidante, said senior Kristen Watts, who plays the role.

"I love the fact that, in a play that is so well known for its tragic ending, I get to play a fun, comedic character without sacrificing any of the dramatic scenes," Watts said in an e-mail.

Benvolio, the cousin and best friend of Romeo, provides a more balanced character, said sophomore John Oreskovich, who portrays Benvolio.

"(Benvolio) is known as the peacekeeper in the play and tries to keep the two families from fighting," said Oreskovich in an e-mail. "He knows what's right and wrong and makes sure the rest of his friends are safe, but he still loves to joke around, hang with his friends, and have fun."

Tobin is presenting the play in a manner that reflects its timelessness.

"I am using costumes that are more 'Lord of the Rings' style than Renaissance," Tobin said. "The set is not in the traditional style, either. I really want the audience to understand that this play is not stuck in the past. These themes are relevant today and will be in the future. Shakespeare is timeless."

Tickets cost $8 for adults and $5 for students and may be purchased at the box office before the show or in advance by calling (740) 657-2182.