Picture: Matt Crockett
& Juliet was reviewed at the Milton Keynes Theatre where it continues until 12 April 2025. The tour continues until 28 June 2025.
Star rating: four stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ✩
As the audience enters the auditorium of Milton Keynes Theatre, they are welcomed by a bright, energetic and modern set. Even before the show has begun, cast members are dancing and singing, giving a taste of what is to come in this jukebox musical. & Juliet features songs from Max Martin, the hitmaker behind pop icons like Britney Spears, the Backstreet Boys and Katy Perry. The popular soundtrack accompanies a fun and bouncy show, which raises the question: ‘What if Juliet’s story didn’t end in tragedy?’
This retelling of Romeo and Juliet flips Shakespeare’s narrative on its head and gives William Shakespeare’s wife, Anne (Lara Denning) the agency to rewrite Juliet’s (Gerardine Sacdalan) future. Instead of succumbing to fate, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, friendship and love, accompanied by a cast of equally dynamic and lovable characters. The show balances humour and heartfelt moments while embracing its own camp brilliance.
& Juliet delivers some powerful performances, particularly from leading lady Sacdalan as Juliet. Her unique voice easily fills the theatre, and her confidence dominates the stage. Also of note are Juliet’s companions, such as the hilariously scene-stealing Sandra Marvin as Angelique, and the sassy but loveable Denning as Anne; both add depth and comedy in equal measure.
However, what makes the show so impactful is the ensemble that never seems to stop dancing throughout. It is also entertaining to see well-known faces Jay McGuiness as Shakespeare and Lee Latchford-Evans as Lance.
The energy of & Juliet is kept even more high-octane with its soundtrack of tracks like ‘Baby One More Time’, ‘Since U Been Gone’ and ‘Roar’. Although the way the songs are playfully woven into the plot is amusing and there are hits the audience will recognise, at times the show feels too song-heavy. Not long after a song ends, another starts, which begins to feel like they are being crammed into the show for the sake of it, not because they add to the story. It is impressive that the entire soundtrack is performed by a live band though.
An element of the show that really has the wow factor is the production’s set, lighting and costumes, designed by Soutra Gilmour, Howard Hudson and Paloma Young, which are a feast for the eyes. With dazzling LED backdrops, vibrant period-meets-modern costumes and an impressive use of stage effects, the visual aspects of & Juliet add to the show’s positive vibes and bubbly vitality.
& Juliet celebrates empowerment and reinvention, giving a unique twist to the well-known play. Whether you’re a die-hard theatre enthusiast, a pop music lover or just someone looking for a feel-good night out, this musical, directed by Luke Sheppard, delivers on most fronts. While not without its minor flaws, its witty script, compelling performances and lively musical numbers make it an enjoyable experience at Milton Keynes Theatre.
Hannah Grimmette
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