Lupita Nyong’o’s Brother Junior ‘Put it Out in the Universe’ for Them to Costar in “Twelfth Night” (Exclusive)

Junior Nyong’o Reflects on His Experience Starring Alongside His Sister Lupita in ‘Twelfth Night’

Junior Nyong’o recently shared his excitement about acting alongside his sister, Lupita Nyong’o, in the production of ‘Twelfth Night,’ exclusively with PEOPLE. The siblings took on the roles of Viola and Sebastian in the Shakespeare play staged at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, New York City.

He reminisced about his initial encounter with the play eight years ago in an all-male production at the Orlando Shakespeare Theater. The idea of portraying twins in ‘Twelfth Night’ sparked a thought in Junior’s mind that he and his sister could bring these characters to life together. His wish finally came true as they united on stage for this remarkable production.

The Nyong’o siblings have shared a strong bond, both personally and professionally. Junior described his collaboration with his Oscar-winning sister as a “dream come true.” Their closeness off-stage has translated into a dynamic performance on-stage, portraying the intricate relationship between Viola and Sebastian with authenticity and depth.

Junior highlighted the significance of their friendship in enhancing their on-stage chemistry, making the experience of bringing the play to New York audiences incredibly rewarding. Working alongside Lupita has allowed him to explore a new dimension of their artistic relationship, enriching their bond as siblings and actors.

In addition to Lupita and Junior’s stellar performances, the production of ‘Twelfth Night’ boasts a talented ensemble cast including Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Sandra Oh, and Peter Dinklage. The play, running from August 22 to September 13, promises a captivating theatrical experience for audiences at Shakespeare in the Park.

Junior, a graduate of the UCSD MFA program, has showcased his acting prowess in various productions, from Shakespearean classics to contemporary plays. He expressed admiration for Lupita’s diverse body of work, particularly highlighting her role in Jordan Peele’s horror film ‘Us’ as a standout performance, alongside her engaging portrayal in ‘Little Monsters.’

As ‘Twelfth Night’ continues to captivate audiences with its enchanting storytelling and compelling performances, the Nyong’o siblings shine brightly on stage, embodying the timeless characters of Viola and Sebastian with grace and skill. Their collaboration serves as a testament to their shared passion for the arts and dedication to their craft.

Shakespeare in the Park’s rendition of ‘Twelfth Night’ not only celebrates the enduring legacy of the playwright but also showcases the talent and camaraderie of a remarkable ensemble cast led by the Nyong’o siblings. The production promises an unforgettable theatrical experience, blending familial chemistry with the magic of live performance.

For those eager to witness this captivating rendition of ‘Twelfth Night,’ ticket information is available on the publictheater.org website. The play’s limited run presents a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of Shakespeare’s words brought to life by a talented and diverse cast, led by the Nyong’o siblings’ heartfelt performances.