The Shakespeare Collection | Romeo and Juliet (S01E01 - BBC 1978)

The BBC Television Shakespeare is a series of British television adaptations of the plays of William Shakespeare, created by Cedric Messina and broadcast by BBC Television. Transmitted in the UK from 3 December 1978 to 27 April 1985, the series spanned seven seasons and thirty-seven episodes. Optional English subtitles (click on CC).

Initially, the adaptations received generally negative reviews, although the reception improved somewhat as the series went on, and directors were allowed more freedom, leading to interpretations becoming more daring. Several episodes are now held in high esteem, particularly some of the traditionally lesser-known and less frequently staged plays. The BBC Television Shakespeare project was the most ambitious engagement with Shakespeare ever undertaken by either a television or film production company. So large was the project that the BBC could not finance it alone, requiring a North American partner who could guarantee access to the United States market, deemed essential for the series to recoup its costs. By the end of its run, the series had proved both a ratings and a financial success.

The complete set is a popular collection, and several episodes represent the only non-theatrical production of the particular play currently available on DVD.

Season 1 - Romeo and Juliet
Directed by Alvin Rakoff
Produced by Cedric Messina
Taping dates: 31 January-5 February 1978
First transmitted in the UK: 3 December 1978
First transmitted in the US: 14 March 1979

Cast & Characters:
Patrick Ryecart as Romeo
Rebecca Saire as Juliet
Celia Johnson as Nurse
Michael Hordern as Capulet
John Gielgud as Chorus
Joseph O'Conor as Friar Laurence
Laurence Naismith as Prince Escalus
Anthony Andrews as Mercutio
Alan Rickman as Tybalt
Jacqueline Hill as Lady Capulet
Christopher Strauli as Benvolio
Christopher Northey as Paris
Paul Henry as Peter
Roger Davidson as Balthasar
John Paul as Montague
Zulema Dene as Lady Montague
Esmond Knight as Old Capulet
David Sibley as Sampson
Jack Carr as Gregory
Bunny Reed as Abraham
Vernon Dobtcheff as Apothecary
John Savident as Friar John
Danny Schiller as Musician
Jeremy Young as 1st Watch
Jeffrey Chiswick as 2nd Watch
Gary Taylor as Potpan
Mark Arden as Page
Robert Burbage as Page
Alan Bowerman as 1st Citizen

Episode 2: https://rumble.com/v6p3r4o-the-shakespeare-collection-king-richard-the-second-s01e02-bbc-1978.html