&Juliet

David West Read has crafted an impressive book that makes the show accessible to all. It’s filled with characters audiences will recognise from the classic tale, along with clever jokes and witty commentary that will engage even those less familiar with the original work. With six lead characters whose stories intertwine, it’s no small feat to give each enough stage time to develop their individual arcs—but the show does so successfully. From William Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway ‘rewriting the story’ to Juliet’s nurse Angelique revisiting past experiences with Lance, each storyline is given the space it needs to be fully explored and satisfyingly complete.

This is only further enhanced by the impressive array of bona fide smash hits featured in the score. Swedish song writing expert and producer Max Martin, known for crafting hits for the likes of Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and Katy Perry, all of which appear in the show, brings his signature touch to the soundtrack. It perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the show without ever feeling cheap or forced. While jukebox musicals often fall into the trap of shoehorning songs in for the sake of it, & Juliet stands out for its meticulous song placement, a true testament to the show's longevity and thoughtful execution.

Often, touring productions reduce staging to cut costs or simplify logistics. That’s not the case with this show, which remains faithful to its West End counterpart. While some of the more challenging elements have been adapted, the sheer extravagance is undiminished. Impressive set changes, designed by Soutra Gilmour, transport the audience seamlessly from Juliet’s bedroom to Verona and Paris. Throw in confetti, fireworks and cast members hanging from chandeliers and it would be easy to forget this isn’t a current West End performing show. It’s hard to think of another touring production that would elate the amount of pure joy that this show does.