& Juliet – Regent Theatre, Stoke

The Regent Theatre was packed out with eager theatre goers ready to watch &Juliet on its first UK tour. The audience was full of people of all ages. On entering the auditorium, the spectacle that this show draws you in instantly. Projecting London landmark names onto all walls and playing instrumental versions of the music your ears will be graced with throughout the rest of this show. The ensemble cast entering the stage and engaging with the audience before curtain up was a really sweet touch.  The second you stepped foot into the auditorium you knew that this was going to be a special night and the show lives up to these expectations and more.

This Jukebox musical mixes the traditional story of Romeo and Juliet and adds Modern twist. With Shakespeare (Jay McGuiness) and Anne (Lara Denning) making changes to the iconic ending of what is probably the best-known play in the world. The sound track is 90s babies dream full of pop classics. Full of instantly recognisable songs that you can’t help but enjoy.  

The show really takes you on an emotional rollercoaster from the most stunning heart wrenching ballads, Lara Denning’s rendition of ‘That’s the Way It Is’ was a true theatre masterclass. Rarely have I heard a theatre erupt into an applause like the one she received for this song. She had the audience in the palm of her hand the entire show but from this heart breaking performance the script switched to an instant juxtaposition which was the Da Bois Band. Which was my personal favourite scene in the whole show I couldn’t stop laughing. It was truly like being at the best boy band concert helped by the show’s star casting of Lee Latchford-Evans and Jay McGuiness who know how to work an audience like no other. 

The show is visually outstanding a special mention must go to the visuals in ‘One More Try.’ I was sat mouth wide open at this stunning scene. The mix of technology and huge scenery pieces was expertly handled by the creative team. The colouring used in both the set and the costumes was magical.  The costuming mixed the traditional shapes you’d expect of a Shakespearean theatre with modern twists. I found myself really excited to see the characters next costume.

Every cast member in this show was expertly chosen. Each bringing their own flare to the show. Gerardine Sacdalan playing Juliet embodies the iconic Shakespeare quote perfectly of ‘though she may be little she is fierce’ what an absolute powerhouse performance.  Benjamin Jackson Walker’s Romeo was captivating, I found myself drawn to him every time he was on stage. He was endlessly in character. Brilliantly funny. His performance like his entrance was in fact ‘Larger than Life.’

Sandra Martin as Angelique what a performer. Her performance was captivating. Her comedy timing impeccable, her acting impeccable and her voice impeccable.

The show is truly ‘Sunshine in a bottle’. If you’re feeling down just book a ticket you won’t regret it. My only gripe with the show is that I found myself not wanting it to end. I was excited to text my friends in the interval just to tell them they needed to book and see it whilst it’s in town. &Juliet really does ‘Blow’ the roof of the theatre. The most fun I’ve had at the theatre for a long time.  I’d go every night this week if I could.

‘& Juliet really does ‘blow’ the roof of the theatre’

Reviewer: Leanne Rushton

Reviewed: 12^th May 2025

North West End UK Rating: