First performed in 2019,
& Juliet has become quite a global success, and now, as part of a UK Tour, it has arrived at Milton Keynes Theatre for a two-week run. Featuring a book by David West Read, it tells the what-if story of the survival of Juliet at the end of Shakespeare's
Romeo & Juliet. Primarily a jukebox musical, it more specifically features the works of Swedish songwriter Max Martin (and friends, as the credits describe). The question is, does
& Juliet provide more than the standard of many a jukebox musical before it, and does it honour the tragic tale from which it has sprung?
Our story opens with William Shakespeare presenting his latest work, Romeo & Juliet, for the first time. However, when his wife, Anne Hathaway, learns how he intends the tale to end, she is away with his quill and planning on her reworking of the story.
At the core of this touring production's success is Geraldine Sacdalan's powerhouse performance as Juliet. Her Juliet is genuinely her own woman and always emotive, bringing tremendous depth to the role. Her transitions in song from ballads to belters are incredible, and her dominance in scenes is second to none in the cast.
Elsewhere, Jay McGuinness impresses as Shakespeare, bringing humour to the role and the expected good vocals. His performance is brilliantly chummy, portraying The Bard as the mate down the pub. Laura Denning raises the bar further as her character Anne Hathaway brings some witty repartee to the role alongside her husband and simply incredible vocal performance, particularly stopping the show with her end solo to the song
That's The Way.
Lee Latchford-Evans is tremendously valuable as the "French" Lance, complete with a dodgy accent and an upstaging codpiece. His partnership with Juliet's Nurse, Angelique, played by Sandra Marvin, provides some of the best comedy from the show as their romance blossoms again.
On as cover in the role of Romeo, Liam Morris brings further comedy to the show with his insipid interpretation of the character. Finally, Jordan Broatch and Kyle Cox form a delightfully charming partnership as May and Francois, respectively.
Director Luke Sheppard has created a superbly smooth production. It encompasses some brilliant choreography from Jennifer Weber, who takes a mixture of moves from the songs represented and adds her hip, upbeat work. Soutra Gilmour's set design is also sublime, with vibrant colours and stunning visuals. There is also an excellent use of video from Andrzej Goulding, which projects beyond the stage and, at times, onto the theatre's walls.
The musical choices for this jukebox show are also perfectly selected and suitably adapted for the production. Hence, numbers from Britney Spears and Bon Jovi never feel forced into the storyline and feel very much part of the overall thread. There is also a brilliantly clever boy band sequence to look forward to, which delights the audience.
& Juliet is an excellent piece of theatre, bringing The Bard's tale to the modern audience without disrespecting the original. The show represents much of the best of theatre, honouring its history by taking one of the classic stories and making it relevant for a modern audience. Bringing the jukebox musical format, so prominent for good or bad, and making it work in the best possible way. And finally, just making a cracking and entertaining show from the package.
A stunning modern spin on the classic tale backed by a perfectly selected jukebox of songs.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Performance reviewed: Monday, 31st March 2025, at the Milton Keynes Theatre.
Production photos: Matt Crockett
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