& Juliet: A Review

The cast of '& Juliet'

By Darlene Donloe  

The Ahmanson Theatre's production of & Juliet, which opened Friday, Aug. 15, is so hot it leaves the stage blazing. 

The show opens with William Shakespeare and his wife Anne Hathaway, arguing over what would make a better ending to Shakespeare’s latest tragedy, ‘Romeo and Juliet.’

Hathaway wants Juliet to have a second chance at love, while Shakespeare wants a tragic ending.

A high-energy must-see, with Rachel Simone Webb shining as the titular lead character, ‘& Juliet’ has something for everybody.

There’s music, dancing, vibrant lights, an intriguing story, and lots of comedy.

In this reimagined jukebox musical version of Shakespeare's classic tale, Juliet refuses to let her story end with Romeo. 

Instead, she seizes control, rewriting her fate for a second shot at life and love on her own terms.

The show uses pop songs from the 90s and 2000s, written by Max Martin, to drive the narrative and is praised for its fun, energetic, and empowering atmosphere. 

Webb brings Juliet's journey to life with infectious energy and charm.

As the protagonist navigates self-discovery, friendship, and new romance, Webb's performance is both captivating and empowering. 

Her powerful vocals shine in iconic pop anthems like "Roar" and "Since U Been Gone," which are boldly reimagined for the stage.

The music in ‘& Juliet’ is a key element that drives the story forward. 

The musical features a modern pop-infused score with catchy and upbeat numbers. 

The creative team has done an excellent job of incorporating popular pop songs into the show, making it a must-see for fans of music and theater.

Some of the notable songs include "I Want It That Way,” “Baby One More Time,” “Oops!.. I Did It Again,” “I Kissed A Girl,” “It’s My Life,” “Love Me Like You Do,” “Problem/Can’t Feel My Face,” “Everybody,” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!”

There are plenty of fun and upbeat numbers adding to the show's energetic vibe.

The music is expertly woven into the narrative, blending seamlessly with the story to create a unique and captivating theatrical experience. 

Webb's portrayal of Juliet is a testament to her talent, making this production an unforgettable experience. 

The show features a talented cast, including Teal Wicks, Paul Jordan Jansen, and Kathryn Allison, with impressive choreography by Jennifer Weber and direction by Luke Sheppard.

David West Read’s witty book provides a playful and humorous approach to the classic tragedy.

There’s a lot to unpack in the show, including some thought-provoking themes about the power of choice. The show’s positive and empowering message also includes the feminist perspective, and allows people to love who they love.

The creative team expertly weaves together music, comedy, and romance, creating a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience.

The set design by Soutra Gilmour and costumes by Paloma Young add to the show's vibrant atmosphere.

& Juliet is a celebration of independence, resilience, and rewriting your ending. 

With its high-energy performances, catchy music, and empowering message, this musical is not to be missed. 

Don't let Romeo's tragic tale fool you – Juliet's story is just beginning, and it's a wild ride. 

This show is chock full of strong performances by every member of the stellar cast and catchy tunes.

‘& Juliet,’ directed by Luke Sheppard, stars Webb, Paul-Jordan Jansen, Teal Wicks, Corey Mach, Nick Drake, Kathryn Allison, Michael Canu, Mateus Leite Cardoso, Naima Alakham, Camille Brooks, Nella Cole, Lois Ellise, Josh Fermin, Virgil Gadson, Ishmael Gonzalez, Kenneth Onesimus Goubran, Shelby Griswold, Christopher Robert Hanford, Jourdan Ibe, Josh Jordan, Nicole Lamb, Yoshi Maysonet, Usman Ali Mughal, Kyra Smith, and Francisco Thurston.

‘& Juliet,’ Ahmanson Theatre, 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, 7:30 p.m. Tues.-Thur., 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 7 p.m. Sundays, through September 7, 2025, tickets start at $47.15, 213 628-2772, wwwCenterTheatreGroup.org 

‘& Juliet’ moves to Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA, September 9-21, 714 556-2787. 

Runtime: 2 hours and 25 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission. 

On the DONLOE SCALE: D (don’t bother), O (oh, no), N (needs work), L (likeable), O (oh, yeah), and E (excellent), ‘& Juliet’ gets an E (excellent).