Oscar Diaz and Janelly Mendoza, from Laredo, Texas, were married on stage on June 11 after a performance of Romeo and Juliet at the Public Theater’s Delacorte Theater in New York. The unique ceremony took place in Central Park, known for hosting Free Shakespeare in the Park events.

An hour before the play, Oscar and Janelly seemed overwhelmed as they were led onto the stage. Actor Francis Jue introduced himself, stating that he would play both Friar Lawrence and the officiant at their wedding. The couple, childhood friends, grew up in Laredo, where they met Saheem Ali, the play’s associate artistic director. Ali’s version of Romeo and Juliet is set at the U.S.-Mexican border, where Romeo’s family is Latino, and Juliet’s family supports the border patrol.

Ali learned about a local tradition where a Mexican and a U.S. citizen marry on a bridge, each in their own country, with an officiant in the middle. This inspired him to propose a real wedding at the play’s end, contrasting with the tragic fate of Shakespeare’s lovers. Ali initially suggested the idea to Oscar and Janelly, who dismissed it as unlikely.

However, when Ali reached out again, they embraced the opportunity. This was Oscar’s first New York visit; Janelly’s second since childhood. Before the show, they toured landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Times Square. Just months after meeting Ali, they prepared to wed on stage.

This summer, the Delacorte Theater hosts similar events, with a wedding or vow renewal after each of the 32 performances. Francis Jue, officiant for these ceremonies, remarked on the communal experience during times of division in America.

Wedding planner Carla Perez revealed a custom pin for each married couple at the theater. After Romeo and Juliet, Jue addressed the audience as Oscar and Janelly reappeared. Oscar wore cowboy boots and a brown blazer; Janelly, a long ivory dress with sparkly shoes. Jue highlighted their journey from Laredo and their desire to start a life together witnessed by the play’s audience.

The couple exchanged vows and, as the crowd cheered, displayed their rings and signed the license. Saheem Ali, signing as a witness, humorously pledged to ensure their long-lasting marriage. “It’s real now,” Janelly exclaimed, smiling. When asked if the event met her expectations, she replied, “Better!”

This article was edited by Luis Clemens. Eleana Tworek mixed the audio for digital and broadcast versions.