& Juliet at Milton Keynes Theatre Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Julie Hayward
The first Act of & Juliet can only be described as completely joyous. I instantly warmed to the characters and the proposed plot re write.
It is opening night of William Shakespeare’s new play, Romeo & Juliet. Shakespeare, played by Jay McGuiness, from ‘The Wanted’, reveals to the cast, and his wife Anne Hathaway, played by Lara Denning, that the play is a ‘Tragedy’ as both the titled characters will die. Anne is not impressed by this version. She was very much looking forward to a rare night out, wanting to have fun, and suggested an alternative, that it could be so much better, if Juliet decided to live.
Anne introduces us to Juliet’s friends, May, played by Jordan Broatch, and for tonight she writes herself the role of ‘Best Friend’ April, accompanied by Juliet’s nurse Angelique, played by Sandra Marvin.
The four depart Verona, the backdrop is an ever-changing screen of L.E.D lights and images that take us on their journey. The scenes are effortlessly accompanied by a familiar soundtrack and dances to the catchy pop tunes, the lyrics perfectly matching the storyline.
The vocals are amazing and the accompanying music, has concert vibes, from the boyband era. The musicians need to be credited, as initially I assumed it was recorded music, as it was performed that perfectly.
By the end of Act One, we were introduced to some new love interests, and not only for Juliet. In the form of Kyle Cox, as Francois and his father, played by Lee Latchford-Evans, from the group ‘Steps’. Making the most of his and Jay’s Boyband credentials, we are treated to a collaboration within the story, of a performance of the Backstreet Boy’s ‘Everybody’. Not surprisingly this iconic song and many more are all from the writing back catalogue of Max Martin, who is also overseeing the production of the Musical.
I enjoyed seeing Anne step out of the character of April and interact with her husband throughout, and we get an insight into their relationship. They duet and dance a soliloquy or as they informed the audience an aside. There were many Shakespearean references to popular sayings we use in today’s language, although the stage is set in Shakespearean times, the costumes easily crossover with modern day, as does the language and dance styles, it is very up to date.
Such strong vocals from all the lead actors but Gerardine Sacdalan, as Juliet’s performance of ‘Stronger’ was outstanding.
I also particularly liked ‘I’m, not a girl, not yet a woman’, performed by May. And I adored Lara’s portrayal of Anne Hathaway.
The second act is full of twists and turns, with a more in-depth storyline, whilst cleverly accompanied by the songs performed by the cast. The supporting cast, seamlessly move on and off stage, joining the musical performances, without it feeling staged, and has a natural flow.
It was opening night at Milton Keynes Theatre, with a full house, enhanced by the AGT+ membership events, I have included a link, if you are interested in finding out more.
I can honestly say that although I thought it would be a good night out, I wasn’t expecting it to be as brilliant as it was, I loved it from beginning to end. We were thoroughly entertained.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £13, subject to transaction fee of £3.95.
Link to sign up to ATG+ membership www.atgtickets.com/membership
& Juliet – The New Musical, is at Milton Keynes Theatre from Mon 31st March to Sat 12th April 2025.
For more information and to book tickets call 020 7206 1174 or visit www.atgtickets.com
Milton Keynes Theatre, 500 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire MK9 3NZ.