& JULIET
- Tracy Payne
- May 25
- 4 min read
Penrith Musical and Comedy Company
Guest Reviewer: Libby Choy
As a long-time Shakespeare enthusiast, I approached & Juliet with both excitement and curiosity. The last time I saw a Romeo and Juliet adaptation on stage was over a decade ago on Broadway starring Orlando Bloom, a production rooted firmly in tradition. I’ll admit that jukebox musicals aren’t always my favourite; however, from the very first chords of the Backstreet Boys’ I Want It That Way, I was hooked. As a millennial, I knew instantly that I was in for something special, and I absolutely was.
The Penrith Musical Comedy Company delivers a witty, high-energy, laugh-out-loud production that reimagines Shakespeare’s classic tragedy with bold creativity. At its heart is a clever and refreshing premise: what if Juliet didn’t die?
This unique take is brought to life through the comic genius of William Shakespeare himself, Robert Hall, alongside the extraordinary presence of his wife, Anne Hathaway, played by Jessica Zamprogno. Zamprogno is exceptional, delivering wicked humour laced with knowing sarcasm and dry wit—balanced by moments of genuine vulnerability that reveal the emotional weight of the many roles she carries, including that of Shakespeare’s often-overlooked wife. Their breaking of the fourth wall adds a playful, metafictional layer that keeps the audience engaged and constantly entertained.
Director John Forbes, in his 29th production, demonstrates remarkable vision and experience, delivering a show that feels both polished and effortlessly dynamic. His direction strikes the perfect balance between humour, spectacle, and emotional depth, ensuring the production never loses its pace or clarity; this is a confident and assured display of leadership from a director clearly at the height of his craft.
Musical Director Marcel Viera brings the iconic soundtrack to life with precision and energy, while Amy Stoakes’ choreography is dynamic and infectious, so much so that it was hard not to want to get up and dance along. Visually, the production strikes a perfect balance between tradition and modernity. The costume design captures a stunning duality, velvet bodices alongside glittering bodysuits, blending Shakespearean aesthetics with contemporary flair. This is further enhanced by the stunning backdrops of Paris, designed by Naomi Crew, which fuse Renaissance elegance with vibrant graffiti, reinforcing the production’s seamless blend of classical and contemporary worlds.
Juliet, played by the exceptional Annabelle Payne, is introduced immediately as a star, not just vocally but visually, with a killer face card that commands attention the moment she steps on stage. With her powerful, polished vocals and commanding stage presence, she captivates from her very first moment. Her costume, a traditional pink gown paired with hot pink Doc Martens, beautifully symbolises the fusion of old and new and adds a nostalgic 90s edge.
Juliet’s journey becomes one of courage and self-discovery, guided by the strong and witty Anne, the hilariously over-the-top Nurse Angelique, played by Ron Wadick, and Juliet’s loyal
best friend May. May, played by Euno Mateo, brings warmth and authenticity to the role,
offering important representation and contributing to the show’s inclusive, queer-positive
narrative. Femininity is presented as a powerful and unapologetic force throughout the show, led by Juliet and her fierce entourage, whose loyalty, humour, and self-expression bring a contagious energy that leaves the audience completely uplifted.
The supporting cast also delivers standout performances. From the French court, the
awkward yet endearing François Du Bois (Frankie), played by Callum Gilbert, provides excellent comedic timing, while Lance (Douglas Bryant) brings an exaggerated French persona, reminiscent of Inspector Jacques Clouseau, adding another layer of humour. One of the night’s highlights was Frankie and “Da Boys” performing Everybody (Backstreet’s Back), a moment that had me genuinely laughing in my seat.
When Romeo finally appears, played by Zion Lallana, he is charming yet hilariously cringe, capturing toxic masculinity in a way that is both satirical and entertaining. His portrayal cleverly subverts audience expectations and reinforces the show’s playful critique of traditional romance tropes.
The production builds to a vibrant and joyous finale, with Juliet truly taking the house down. The energy in the theatre is electric, as audience members rise to their feet; dancing and celebrating alongside the cast, they create an atmosphere that feels impossible to leave behind. It is the kind of ending that makes you wish the night would last just a little longer.
Ultimately, this production of & Juliet is a triumphant celebration of reinvention. It blends Shakespearean storytelling with pop culture, humour, and heart to create something entirely new. For those who love the original tragedy, it offers a fresh and empowering alternative, and even for those, like me, who are sometimes sceptical of jukebox musicals, it proves just how powerful and joyful the genre can be when done right. After all, in this bold reimagining, a show by any other name would still rock as sweet.
PMCC presents
& Juliet
22 - 30 May, 2026
Q Theatre, Penrith
Comments