The ultimate Shakespearean tragedy, Romeo and Juliet, is going to be transformed into a comedy at The Phoenix Theatre and Arts Centre in Bordon on March 16 at 5pm.

This production will be by the Four Forty theatre company, for which four actors usually stage the Bard’s classics in just 40 minutes - but this will be their first-ever full length production.

They will breathe new life into the feuding families of Verona and their star-crossed lovers, revealing unexpected laughter and joy in the familiar tale.

One of the four actors will also be the director, Dom Gee-Burch. Speaking to the Herald, he said: “So our take on Romeo and Juliet is right in line with our cheeky, anarchic style. Think Fawlty Towers meets panto with a sprinkling of The Simpsons and Laurel and Hardy. There's something for everyone that transcends any dialogue, whether Shakespearean or not.

“The great thing about Shakespearean tragedies is that we don't shy away from all the gore and death but we do it in an honest way. Honest in the sense there's only four actors with about 12 characters to play, the set and props are minimalistic yet effective, which forces us to get creative about how people die on stage then have to come on as someone else in the same scene.

“Without any spoilers, let's just say we have to get inventive with the poison that Romeo drinks and how it affects his body. Likewise, if he ends up dying on top of Juliet, how would she carry on the scene?”

Suitable for all ages, this production captivates those studying Shakespeare for the first time, introduces newcomers to the Bard’s work, and offers lifelong fans a delightful, fresh perspective on a perennial classic.