A look at why this modern jukebox musical is a great fit for students, featuring familiar music and a fresh take on Shakespeare.
If there was never a story of more woe than Juliet and her Romeo, then surely there’s never been one of more joy than & Juliet. This high-energy Broadway musical flips the script on Shakespeare’s classic, imagining a world where Juliet skips the dagger and takes charge of her own story. It’s a perfect fit for students and theatre lovers alike.
In this reimagined tale, Juliet doesn’t mourn—she moves on. Setting off on an unexpected journey of self-discovery, she finds strength, independence, and plenty of surprises along the way—all set to a score packed with pop hits and powered by bold choreography.
All Your Spotify Favorites
One of the highlights of & Juliet is its “jukebox” format, featuring a playlist entirely of songs composed by the legendary hitmaker Max Martin. Known for crafting hits that dominate the charts (He’s co-written 27 Billboard Hot 100 number-one singles!), Martin’s influence infuses the musical with energy and familiarity. The show features a dynamic lineup of pop anthems like “I Want It That Way” by the Backstreet Boys, “…Baby One More Time” by Britney Spears, and “Since U Been Gone” by Kelly Clarkson.
These iconic tunes, originally performed by superstars, transform the theatre into the ultimate pop party. Students are instantly drawn in by the recognizable melodies, keeping them engaged and tapping their feet throughout the performance. With songs that have transcended generations, & Juliet adds a vibrant, modern twist to Shakespeare’s tale, proving that The Bard’s work can be just as fun as it is educational. Who knew Shakespeare could slap this hard?
The Play’s the Thing
In & Juliet, the Bard himself steps onto the stage as an integral character, adding a unique dimension to the musical’s narrative. Shakespeare is not just the unseen hand behind the original Romeo and Juliet play but an active participant in this reimagined tale, as is his wife Anne Hathaway (the original one), who often grabs his quill to help Juliet change her ending. Their presence in the story allows for playful interactions and a touch of meta-theatrical comedy, as the writer finds himself tangled in the new direction of his characters’ journeys.
This inclusion of Shakespeare as a character creatively blurs the lines between creator and creation, allowing audiences to witness the humorous and sometimes reluctant evolution of his original masterpiece. It highlights the contrast between Shakespeare’s traditional narrative choices and the poised, modern twist that Anne brings to Juliet’s story. Through this interaction, the musical humorously examines themes of creativity, ownership, and the timeless nature of storytelling. Shakespeare’s character serves not only as a guide but a foil to Juliet’s newfound independence and self-determination. Students are invited to consider how stories are not locked in time but can evolve and continue to resonate and inspire anew.
“O, this learning, what a thing it is!”
& Juliet offers students a fresh, engaging way to connect with Shakespeare—far from anything stuffy or outdated. By reimagining a classic tale with contemporary flair, the musical sparks interest in how timeless stories can be creatively adapted for modern audiences.
It also opens the door to meaningful discussions about themes like empowerment, identity, and choice. Juliet’s journey invites students to consider how characters—and people—can reclaim their narratives and reshape their futures, reflecting their own experiences with self-discovery and decision-making.
With relatable characters and a modern sensibility, & Juliet makes Shakespeare accessible and relevant. It shows that his work isn’t just about old language or history, but about universal ideas that still resonate today. This bold, high-energy adaptation reminds students that classic literature can evolve—and still inspire.
Take Note!
& Juliet is well worth considering for student groups for its lively content and its blend of entertainment with educational value. To make organizing your visit a breeze, Broadway Inbound offers assistance with group ticketing, ensuring a smooth process for educators planning a trip for their students.
Moreover, the Broadway Inbound website features an & Juliet study guide, packed with insights and resources to help educators integrate the musical’s themes into their curriculum. Additionally, Broadway Inbound can arrange customized workshops that provide enriching experiences beyond the theatre. Students can engage in activities like hip hop dance or improvisation theatre games, providing a hands-on approach to understanding performance arts and enhancing their appreciation of live theatre.
These resources and opportunities make & Juliet more than just a theatre outing—it’s a comprehensive educational experience that is sure to have both students and teachers dancing in their seats!
Main photo courtesy of Matthew Murphy.
