It is the age-old tale of star-crossed lovers whose fate has been determined long before the story ever finds its conclusion.

William Shakespeare’s classic tale “Romeo and Juliet” is a tragic lesson in love yet it resonates with so many.

Those familiar with the story know of the well-known balcony scene where Romeo sneaks into the Capulet orchard to see Juliet; or they can recall the gripping final death scene where the couple meets their fatal end.

However, few remember that there is quite a bit of humor and wit as well.

It is the comedy that director Alan J. Sanders hopes to bring alive in the Pumphouse Players production which opens at the Grand Theatre Friday.

“I want to try to direct in a way to make this material accessible and fun,” Sanders said.

Part of the fun is putting a unique spin on this timeless classic, said Sanders—beginning with the setting.

Imagine the Capulets as a Colonial family from the Caribbean and the Montagues a band of buccaneers and a pirate theme that is unlike most traditional renderings.

“The great thing about Shakespeare is that it can be put in any setting,” Sanders said.

Sanders said by adding a new twist he hopes to shed new light, particularly for the younger crowd.

“My whole point of doing Shakespeare is if I can get a fraction of the school kids to suddenly go ‘This is pretty cool.’ then may be I can save a bunch of kids from resenting something that is great.”

And sometimes, Sanders said seeing is believing.

“You cannot understand Shakespeare until you see it,” Sanders said. “You have to see it live.”

Adding to the visual spectacle is the costuming for the production, Sanders said.

Cast member Stacey Bern helped design and hand stitched all of the costumes.

“It’s worth coming just to see the pageantry,” Sanders said.

John McQueary and Tiffany Cline star as the title characters.

Tickets to the show are $15 or $13 for Pumphouse Player members and groups of 10 or more.

Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. with a Saturday matinee at 2 p.m.

To view information on the cast visit www.pumphouseplayers.com or follow the show at facebook.com/Romeoand Juliet2012.