Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet gets a Dutch-Moroccan twist in the Netherlands
Romeo is now a young Muslim of Moroccan descent, in love with Juliet, who comes from a conservative Dutch family. In the Netherlands, Theater Oostpool is presenting a new adaptation of Shakespeare’s famous tragedy, starring Moroccan-Dutch actor Hamza Othman.
On stage, the Montagues have become a Muslim family, while the Capulets belong to the Christian Dutch bourgeoisie. Religious and cultural tensions replace the old family rivalries between the two clans. It is in this setting that Romeo and Juliet fall in love, despite the hostility of those close to them.
Romeo is played by Hamza Othman, 28, a Dutch actor of Moroccan descent, born in Alkmaar. Already known to audiences for his roles in the series « Goede Tijden, Slechte Tijden » and « Sihame », he has also appeared in several productions released on Netflix. After making his television debut, he continued his training at the Amsterdam Theatre School.
In this new version of « Romeo and Juliet », the conflict between the families takes on a particularly contemporary dimension. The Capulets, an affluent Dutch family, make no secret of their hostility toward the Muslim Montagues. Racist and anti-Muslim insults accompany clashes between the two sides as the lovers try to pursue their relationship.
Religion plays an important role in the production. Friar Laurence, traditionally portrayed as a Christian religious figure in Shakespeare’s work, becomes a Muslim spiritual guide. At Romeo and Juliet’s secret wedding, verses from the Quran are recited in front of the lovers.
A story inspired by a marriage to a Moroccan woman
Director Char Li Chung drew on his own family history to create this adaptation. His brother converted to Islam so he could marry a Moroccan woman. This personal experience informed his thinking about the cultural and religious differences surrounding romantic relationships.
To prepare for the play, the actors took part in discussions about Islam, discrimination and tensions between communities. Some also studied passages from the Quran. The adaptation was written by Vera Morina, an author of Kosovar descent, who retained Shakespeare’s plot while giving greater prominence to the parents of the two main characters.
The premiere took place on 30 October 2026 at the Koninklijke Schouwburg in The Hague, to a full house. The production was well received by Dutch critics, particularly for its sets, video sequences and the energy of its performers. Josephine Arendsen plays Juliet opposite Hamza Othman.
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The production is currently touring the Netherlands, with performances scheduled in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Eindhoven, Utrecht and several other cities. Produced by Theater Oostpool, it will run until 23 December 2026. The show lasts about two hours and 50 minutes, including an intermission.
