Photo credit Matt Crockett
The Regent plays host to one of the favourites in musical theatre world as ‘& Juliet’ storms into Hanley.
‘& Juliet’ debuted in 2019 in Manchester before transferring to the West End. Created by the Emmy-winning writer David West Read, best known for “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told and asks, what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo?
The music really is stand-out, with huge, huge hits from the past three decades by Max Martin, who has written for many artists including Backstreet Boys, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift and many more. The soundtrack rocket fuel’s the production, injecting high energy from the very beginning and giving a chance for the cast to shine vocally.
The opening reveals to the audience the clever twist: Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway, interrupts the bard as his famous piece concludes, suggesting Juliet be given a life after Romeo. In many ways this start shapes the way for the remainder of the production, with themes of gender empowerment with Hathaway demanding independence for Juliet and a chance to write her own destiny.
Lee Latchford-Evans from chart topping Steps is a recognisable face in the cast which demonstrates how strong the music element is to this production. The arrangements are fresh and surprising, giving new life into classic hits as well as creating new anthems, like Juliet’s ‘Domino’, enforcing her new-found independence.
Visually the set and costumes are stunning. It’s difficult to imagine Elizabethan costumes and backdrops mixed with sequins and neon, but it just works. There are vivid and bright colours wherever you look.
It’s a jukebox musical packed with songs to stick in your head for days. Bring your dancing shoes for this mood-lifting, heart warmer. The show is on until 17th with matinee performances on Wednesday and Saturday. Tickets available from the box office or online here: https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/and-juliet/regent-theatre/
