Fresh from the West End, & Juliet makes a vibrant debut at Leicester’s Curve Theatre, offering a refreshingly modern twist on Shakespeare’s classic Romeo and Juliet. Directed by Luke Sheppard, with a book by David West Read and a soundtrack by pop maestro Max Martin, the production bursts with energy, wit, and empowering themes. Playing at Curve until February 22nd, 2025, this production is a must-see for fans of pop musicals and those eager for a reinvention of the tragic love story.
The premise is simple yet brilliant: Juliet, instead of succumbing to tragedy, takes her fate into her own hands. The twist? The story is rewritten by Anne Hathaway (Lara Denning), Shakespeare’s wife, who challenges him to write the play from an empowered woman’s perspective. This clever framing device infuses the show with self-awareness and wit, with Anne and William’s charged, humorous exchanges providing some of the production’s sharpest moments. Their playful back-and-forth is a highlight, creating an engaging commentary on the creative process and the role of women in classic narratives.
Gerardine Sacdalan shines as Juliet, bringing both vulnerability and strength to the role. Her voice soars with the emotional highs and lows of the character’s transformation from a lovesick teenager to a self-empowered woman, making Juliet’s journey both relatable and inspiring. Jay McGuiness, in the role of Shakespeare, is charming and self-deprecating, showing a playful side to the iconic playwright that balances the show’s dramatic beats with levity.
Lara Denning’s portrayal of Anne is sharp and energetic, offering a perfect foil to McGuiness’s Shakespeare. She brings a fresh, modern sensibility to the role, as Anne pushes William—and, by extension, the audience—toward a more progressive take on the story. Together, Denning and McGuiness form a witty, dynamic duo that drives the narrative forward.
Lee Latchford-Evans, of Steps fame, offers a surprising turn as Angelique’s father and love interest. His performance is sharp and humorous, showing a different side to the Steps icon. Latchford-Evans brings warmth and comic timing to the role, adding a layer of depth to his character and perfectly complementing Sandra Marvin’s portrayal of Angelique.
A particularly vital performance comes from Jordan Broatch as May, a transitioning character whose journey adds an important layer of visibility and representation to the production. Broatch’s sensitive portrayal ensures that May’s story is handled with care and respect, making it a powerful and timely element of the show.
The choreography, by Jennifer Weber, is a standout feature, with dynamic, energetic routines that keep the audience engaged. The pop soundtrack, including hits from Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and Katy Perry, infuses the show with infectious energy, turning every number into an anthem of empowerment and self-expression.
With its blend of modern pop, Shakespearean themes, and strong performances, & Juliet is a lively, thought-provoking celebration of love, freedom, and the power of rewriting your own story. This production delivers on every level, making it a must-see at Curve.
Rating: ★★★★★
