Romeo + Juliet Live-to-Film Concert Coming to Cleveland for 30th Anniversary Tour
Published: Sep 15, 2026 - 12:31 p.m.
CLEVELAND, OHIO — The 1996 cinematic reimagining of William Shakespeare's Romeo + Juliet is returning to the big screen with a live musical twist. GEA Live, in partnership with Disney Concerts and director Baz Luhrmann, announced today that the global tour for the film's 30th anniversary will include a stop at Cleveland's Severance Music Center. Scheduled for Jan. 28, 2027, at 7:30 p.m., the event features the original film dialogue and action on a cinema screen. It is accompanied by a hybrid ensemble that blends rock and orchestral musicians with a DJ and live vocals to recreate the movie's distinct sound. According to the GEA Live announcement, the performance will synchronize the score with the full movie to offer a more immersive experience for the audience. Luhrmann's 1996 adaptation, which starred Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes, transformed the classic tragedy into a modern pop opera set in the fictional Verona Beach. Since its No. 1 debut at the box office on Nov. 1, 1996, the film's aesthetic has continued to shape fashion and music. Luhrmann said in a statement that the concert is designed to celebrate both cinema and Shakespeare while inviting fans to experience the theatricality in a new way. While Severance Music Center serves as the venue, it is important to note that the Cleveland Orchestra will not appear on this program. The venue, which has stood as a landmark in University Circle since 1931, typically hosts classical performances but frequently opens its doors for special cinematic events. The touring ensemble will handle all musical duties, channeling the signature fusion of classic storytelling and contemporary sound that defined the MTV era. The production relies heavily on the film's iconic 1990s soundtrack to drive the narrative forward. Audiences can expect to hear live renditions of tracks like Des'ree's "Kissing You" and The Cardigans' "Lovefool," along with music from Radiohead, Garbage and Kym Mazelle. Floris Douwes, managing director at GEA Live, stated that the goal was to create a live experience that honors the legacy of the film while giving audiences a fresh reason to fall in love with the story again. Ticket presales for eligible Severance Music Center patrons begin Sept. 16 at 10 a.m. General public sales follow on Sept. 18 at 10 a.m. Seats can be reserved by calling the Severance Music Center Ticket Office at 216-231-1111 or by visiting clevelandorchestra.com. -------------------- At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community-driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.
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