By Eeva Tudor
A few weeks ago, I had the experience of attending the musical & Juliet at the Sunderland Empire. I had eagerly anticipated this tour ever since I saw the London version during a school trip in year 5. The excitement that filled the theatre was tangible, and it was so fun to see how the show has captivated audiences across the UK. The music is irresistibly catchy, and the performances by the cast are nothing short of electrifying, making for an unforgettable evening.
The concept of & Juliet is innovative and clever. It imagines a scenario where Shakespeare's wife, Anne Hathaway, reads the original ending of Romeo and Juliet and is utterly disappointed. Instead of the tragic ending, Anne takes matters into her own hands, envisioning a different path for Juliet. This idea sets the stage for a whimsical, humorous, and empowering journey as Anne rewrites the narrative, allowing Juliet to embrace life rather than succumb to despair. This alternate story unfolds with a vibrant soundtrack featuring beloved hits from the 90s and 00s, with artists like Kelly Clarkson and The Backstreet Boys lending their iconic songs to the mix.
In this refreshing version, Juliet is still sometimes naive and inexperienced, yet she is a character who evolves throughout the story. With the unwavering support of her nurse, Angelique, and her spirited friends, May and April, she learns to take control of her own destiny. This empowering theme of self-discovery and resilience resonates strongly, reminding us all that life’s challenges can be met with courage and a sense of adventure.
The tour's cast was impressive, featuring Gerardine Sacdalan as Juliet, whose vibrant energy and vocal prowess brought the character to life. Lara Denning as Anne was a standout, skillfully balancing the role of the frustrated wife and the visionary playwright. Matt Cardle, known for his impressive singing career, took on the role of Shakespeare himself, adding a layer of charm and wit to the performance. Sandra Marvin, as Angelique, provided both comic relief and heartfelt moments, embodying the nurturing spirit of Juliet’s nurse. Jack Danson as Romeo was equally captivating, bringing an appealing blend of charisma and depth to the character.
Psalms-Nissi Myers-Reid, performed as the alternate Juliet during my visit. Her vocals were nothing short of mind-blowing, capturing the essence of the character and delivering powerful renditions of the show's iconic songs. It was a joy to witness her stage presence and talent, which added an extra dimension to the performance. The cast also included Ranj Singh, a familiar face from CBeebies, whose appearance intrigued many audience members as it was his debut musical.
The story takes a thrilling turn when Juliet, upon deciding not to take her own life, attends Romeo’s funeral. This moment is pivotal, as she encounters a variety of ex-girlfriends and boyfriends, prompting her to reflect on her past relationships. With encouragement from April and May, she embarks on a journey to escape Verona and discover herself. This quest for freedom is marked by whimsical encounters and heartfelt revelations, providing a perfect blend of humour and emotional depth.
Ultimately, & Juliet is more than just a reimagining of a classic tale; it’s a celebration of love, friendship, and the power of choice. The show skillfully combines humour, catchy music, and stunning performances to create an uplifting experience that resonates with audiences. It reminds us that our stories are not predetermined and that we have the power to shape our own destinies. This was definitely a show to remember, and I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys upbeat musicals.
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