‘& Juliet’ brings a modern twist on Shakespeare to Syracuse

William Shakespeare is back, but this time, he has a co-writer. In & Juliet, Anne Hathaway joins her husband to reimagine the classic story of Romeo and Juliet, asking one central question: what if Juliet didn’t die?

& Juliet is a jukebox musical that rewrites the original tragedy, giving Juliet a second chance at life. Throughout the show Anne challenges Shakespeare to create a happier ending, one where Juliet chooses independence over dying for love. Set to a soundtrack of iconic pop hits, Juliet embarks on a journey to Paris to discover herself and redefine her future.

Courtesy of “& Juliet” Production

The musical begs the question “what if Juliet didn’t die?” and follows the character on a journey to Paris.

Before the show begins, ensemble members take the stage for a playful pre-show, interacting with one another and dancing around a jukebox. Above the glowing “& Juliet” sign, the letters “O” and “M” are briefly added, hinting at the original Romeo and Juliet before the story is rewritten.

The musical opens with “Larger than Life,” as Shakespeare presents his newest play to Anne. She quickly challenges him, arguing that Juliet deserves better than a tragic ending. Their debate unfolds through the song “I Want It That Way,” setting up the central conflict between the two storytellers.

Anne ultimately wins, and the story restarts. The lights dim, revealing Juliet waking to find Romeo dead. Instead of following the original script, she puts on headphones and sings “…Baby One More Time,” contemplating her next move. While she briefly considers the dagger, a symbol of the original ending, she ultimately sets it aside, choosing to live.

Juliet leaves Verona with her nurse, Angelique; her friend May; and April, who is actually Anne writing herself into the story to guide Juliet along the way. Together, they travel to Paris, where Juliet begins to explore her independence.

One standout moment of the show comes during a party scene set to “Blow,” featuring vibrant lighting in hot pink and gold. Juliet appears atop a chandelier as the ensemble delivers an energetic, full-stage dance number, highlighting the show’s dynamic choreography and bold visual style.

Courtesy of “& Juliet” Production

In a surprise twist at the end of the first act it is revealed Romeo is still alive, and he is hoping to win Juliet back.

At the end of the first act, Shakespeare reasserts control, bringing Romeo back to life despite Anne’s objections, setting up further conflict in the story.

Act 2 focuses on Juliet’s self-discovery and her struggle to decide what she truly wants, whether to return to Romeo or pursue something new with François DuBois. A comedic highlight is the DuBois family band reunion, featuring François, his father Lance, Shakespeare (in disguise), Romeo (also in disguise) and May. The cast performs “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)” as the stage transforms into a concert, with audience members encouraged to participate, creating an immersive, high-energy atmosphere.

Throughout the show, the choreography remains electric, and the set design and costumes blend Shakespearean elements with modern pop aesthetics; bringing a fresh and visually engaging feel to the production. 

In the end, Juliet takes control of her own narrative. Rather than rushing back into love, she chooses independence and decides to take things slowly with Romeo, starting fresh. The cast celebrates with “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” as Juliet fully embraces her new story.

As the show concludes, a “Romeo” sign briefly appears above “& Juliet,” referencing the original tale, before disappearing, leaving only Juliet’s story behind. In the final moment, Juliet activates a jukebox that lights up the “& Juliet” sign, symbolizing that this version of the story belongs entirely to her.

& Juliet plays at the Landmark Theatre through April 26 with tickets available here.