& JULIET Premieres in Costa Mesa, Redefining Shakespeare’s Tale

Costa Mesa

The jukebox musical & JULIET is now showing at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa, offering audiences a vibrant reinterpretation of Shakespeare’s classic tale, Romeo and Juliet. The production runs through September 21, 2025, following a successful debut engagement at Los Angeles’s Ahmanson Theatre. & JULIET has quickly garnered attention for its energetic visuals, talented cast, and engaging humor, making it a crowd-pleaser for theatergoers of all ages.

Fresh Narrative and Engaging Themes

& JULIET distinguishes itself by presenting a reimagined narrative where Juliet does not meet the tragic end prescribed by Shakespeare. Instead, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, driven by a desire to live her own story. This refreshing take is heavily influenced by themes of female empowerment, gender identity, and queer romance, appealing to a diverse audience base.

The production features an assortment of hit songs by pop music icon Max Martin, including tracks such as “…Baby One More Time,” “Stronger,” and “I Want It That Way.” These tracks are cleverly re-contextualized to fit the new storyline, enhancing Juliet’s journey. The show’s book, penned by David West Read, acclaimed for his work on the popular series Schitt’s Creek, incorporates modern American slang, facilitating relatability and engagement with the audience.

Visuals and Direction

Directed by Luke Sheppard, the show melds Elizabethan-era settings with modern theatrical elements, featuring contemporary costumes and even hip-hop dance. Enhanced by dynamic lighting and projections, the visual experience creates a captivating environment that complements the vibrant music and humor. Notably, characters like May, who navigates a non-binary identity, have sparked dialogue on representation within the theater community.

Audience Reception and Concerns

Despite its broad appeal, not all audience members have embraced the show. During its opening performance, a conservative viewer departed after being offended by a scene involving a non-binary character. Such reactions highlight the ongoing conversations within the theater regarding representation and inclusivity. Nevertheless, the musical has successfully attracted a wide range of attendees, with an appropriate content rating for ages 10 and up.

Cast and Key Characters

The cast is headlined by Rachel Simone Webb as Juliet, Corey Mach portraying William Shakespeare, and Teal Wicks as Anne Hathaway. Wicks’s character plays a crucial role in rewriting Juliet’s fate, suggesting that Juliet deserves a second chance at life. The storyline ultimately takes audiences on a journey with Juliet to Paris, symbolizing her quest for self-identity.

National Tour and Future Performances

Following its run in Orange County, & JULIET is set to visit multiple major cities across the U.S., including destinations like Miami, San Antonio, and Sacramento. The North American tour, which aims to encompass over 40 cities, commenced in Baltimore and continues to gain momentum and popularity. The show has also received several Tony Award nominations, solidifying its status as a notable production in contemporary musical theater.

Conclusion

& JULIET’s unique blend of classic literature and modern pop music invites audiences to rethink traditional narratives while enjoying a theatrical experience marked by lively performances and important social themes. As its journey continues, the musical is poised to touch the hearts of many and provoke thoughtful discourse on identity and empowerment.