Oh Barrios, Barrios! Wherefore art thou Barrios?

In fairness, the event at the Shubert Theatre was not without its strong points. It was amusing to see (gay, married) State Senator Jarrett Barrios play Romeo opposite (anti-gay marriage) Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey's Juliet (especially the part where she describes him as "my only love sprung from my only hate"). Appeals Court Justice Janis Berry, in the role of Benvolio, displayed a dramatic style with unmistakable influences of William Shatner and Christopher Walken, to surprisingly good effect. And Superior Court Judge Isaac Borenstein nailed the role of Paris, Juliet's boring, parentally-approved fiancé. His studiously dry approach left no doubt in the audience's mind as to why the young heroine would prefer fiery, impetuous Romeo. Even when he was stabbed by Romeo, Borenstein's Paris remained emotionless. "Oof," he said, falling gingerly to one knee. "I am slain." His tone of voice was no different than if he had said, "Cream and two sugars, please."

The revelation of the evening was Barrios, who stole the stage from Healey's Juliet-as-bored-cheerleader. Tall, dark-haired and strong-jawed, Barrios had the look of a 1950s matinee idol. His reading was nuanced and genuine, and Bostonist felt strangely proud to have him as our representative in the State Senate. (In the interest of full disclosure, Bostonist should mention that we met Barrios at his yard sale a couple years back and found him to be a very pleasant individual. He also gave us a good price on a couple of framed prints for our office.)

Bostonist is reluctant to say that the bloody feud depicted in the play is an allegory for the state of Massachusetts politics. After seeing Barrios's star turn, however, we can say with certainty that opponents of gay marriage should be glad that the issue, which is back at the top of the legislative agenda, will not be settled on the dramatic stage.

Contributed by Josh Michtom