FACTION of FOOLS THEATRE COMPANY

A Commedia, “Romeo and Juliet”

There’s nobody around here who knows Commedia dell’Arte which began in 16th Century Italy like Faction of Fools Theatre Company’s founding artistic director, Matthew R. Wilson. He studied and even taught in Italy this physical theatre which also uses masks. Appropriately, he has set “Romeo and Juliet” in Italy using the conflict between the Montague and Capulet families who want to keep the young lovers from marrying. In the hands of Wilson’s Commedia, it’s a wonderful slapstick show and not the usual downer of the tragedy of the young lovers. Do see this clever work by Faction of Fools, featuring five terrific actors at the Mead Theatre Lab at Flashpoint at 916 G St. NW through Feb. 4. Tickets are available at the door or call 800-838-3006. Check the website at www.factionoffools.com.