Review by Jody Hooker
A Modern Twist on a Timeless Tale – What if Romeo’s ending, was Juliet’s beginning?
The Emmy®-winning writer from Schitt’s Creek flips the script on Shakespeare in this hilarious and poignant story of self-discovery and second chances. Legendary songwriter; Max Martin delivers one of the most addictive and joyous soundtracks to ever hit the stage, in this inspiring new musical that proves there’s life after Romeo.
Alongside this laugh-out-loud and heart-warming story, comes a playlist of songs that is truly second to none in the world of pop music including, Kelly Clarkson’s ‘Since U Been Gone’, Katy Perry’s ‘Roar’, Britney Spears’ ‘…Baby One More Time’, Backstreet Boys’ ‘Larger Than Life’, Justin Timberlake’s ‘Can’t Stop the Feeling’ and much more!
& JULIET is directed by the incomparable Luke Sheppard with electrifying choreography from Jennifer Weber and stunning set design from Soutra Gilmour.
& Juliet has burst onto the Sydney Lyric Theatre stage, injecting a fresh and contemporary energy into the world of musical theatre. This reimagined take on the end of Shakespeare’s classic tale is a high energy hit from beginning to end!
The production, set against a vibrant and rustic set of brick, graffiti, LED lighting and projection, explores an alternate ending to Shakespeare’s famous play, Romeo and Juliet. The story takes an unexpected turn as Juliet, played with brilliance by the exceptional Lorinda May Merrypor, decides to chart her own course in life after the tragic demise of her beloved Romeo. The result is a witty, empowering, and thoroughly entertaining narrative that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats.
The music of & Juliet is a standout feature, featuring a medley of contemporary pop hits that seamlessly integrate into the storyline. From the infectious energy of Britney Spears’ ‘Oops!… I Did It Again’ to the emotional depth of Katy Perry’s “Roar,” the musical score becomes a character in its own right, enhancing the narrative and eliciting cheers, applause and even dancing from the audience.
The choreography, under the expertise of Jennifer Webber, is a punchy and modern display of precision and creativity. The dance numbers are executed with flair and athleticism, showcasing the incredible skills of the Australian cast. The synergy between choreography and music is particularly evident in the use of a revolve on stage, leaving the audience in awe of the ensemble’s talent.
Lorinda May Merrypor steals the show with her exceptional portrayal of Juliet. Her powerful pop vocals, dance energy, and captivating stage presence bring depth and authenticity to the character. The chemistry between Lorinda and the exceptional supporting cast of Amy Lehpamer, Casey Donovan, Jesse Dutlow, Rob Mills, Blake Appelqqvist, Hayden Tee and Yashith Fernando, is palpable, contributing to the overall success of the production.
& Juliet is flawless in every way. It displayed a seamless blend of excellence that extended from its phenomenal cast to the high energy ensemble performers, exceptional vocals and outstanding sets and costumes. What truly set this musical apart was its groundbreaking approach to gender roles within the narrative, offering a refreshing portrayal that embraced all body sizes and celebrated diversity on stage. This production is a genuine delight, presenting theatre at its pinnacle, unencumbered by traditional norms, and delivering an unforgettable experience that leaves theatregoers dancing and singing out of the theatre.
& Juliet is not only a testament to the enduring appeal of Shakespeare’s stories but also a celebration of empowerment and self-discovery. The production successfully blends the old and the new, offering a unique and engaging experience for both seasoned theatergoers and those new to the world of musicals.
& Juliet at the Sydney Lyric Theatre is a musical triumph, seamlessly fusing classic literature with contemporary flair. The stellar performances, contagious choreography, and popular music make it a must-see for anyone seeking a modern twist on a timeless tale.
& Juliet is now playing at the Sydney Lyric Theatre for a strictly limited season!
For more information and tickets: https://andjuliet.com.au/sydney-tickets/
Photo credit: Daniel Boud
