& JULIET

Click here if you liked this article 1

www.riversideparramatta.com.au

Date Reviewed: 03/10/2025

HIGHLY RECOMMEND EVERYBODY AND ANYBODY TO SEE & JULIET!

The show is one of the best I’ve seen in a long time, bursting with energy, incredible music, and infectious fun that makes you feel young again. It’s a vibrant mix of song, dance, and comedy that’s perfect to enjoy with absolutely anyone.

The production reimagines the Shakespeare classic Romeo and Juliet with a modern twist and a timeless charm that keeps you enthralled, eager to see where this adventure leads. It offers a clever feminist take on how Juliet might have forged her own path without Romeo leading the way.

The plot loosely centres on Anne Hathaway, William Shakespeare’s wife, who wants to change her husband’s story by asking, what if Juliet did not, in fact, kill herself?

Juliet’s parents plan to send her to a convent, but the headstrong heroine takes control of her destiny and heads to Paris, joined by her nurse, her best friend May, and Anne Hathaway, who has now written herself into the story as April.

Shakespeare and Anne engage in a witty tug of war filled with fabulous comedic moments. Anne wants a happy ending for Juliet, while Shakespeare is not so sure. Yet, intrigued, he goes along with her, perhaps suspecting that she might just be right. Juliet soon learns that Romeo was not quite the man she thought he was, and that is when the fun truly begins. & Juliet is joyful and inclusive, an exuberant celebration that will make you laugh, sing and dance in your seat.

The musical is driven by an exceptionally strong cast. Jade Lee as Juliet is an emerging star with a powerful voice and magnetic stage presence, a true force to be reckoned with. Annette Vitetta, who plays the nurse Angelique, bears a striking resemblance to Juliette Binoche. Her commanding vocals and effortless charisma hold the audience in the palm of her hand. Ben James as William Shakespeare delivers a strong and endearing performance. His comedic timing and cheeky charm make him instantly lovable. The music is uplifting and full of great pop hits. The vibrant set design and beautifully crafted costumes perfectly complement the story’s modern yet classic tone.

All in all, & Juliet is a dazzling and heartwarming night out, entertaining and full of life. It will leave you believing in the power of love once again.

Reviewed by Genna Merrin
Photo by Grant Leslie Photography