Keala Settle Joins & JULIET (Supplied - main image credit Daniel Boud)
Keala Settle Joins & JULIET (Supplied - main image credit Daniel Boud)
2 min read

Keala Settle, the powerhouse vocalist who stole hearts as the bearded lady Lettie Lutz in The Greatest Showman, is joining the & JULIET Australian tour for its Sydney swan song.

Settle will be belting out tunes as the feisty Angelique from June 19th to July 12th. This marks a special homecoming for the star, who previously captivated audiences in the same role during the West End production of & JULIET.

“I am ecstatic to be returning to this incredible show, stepping into this iconic role I had the privilege to play in London,” Settle said.

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“Angelique is bold, sassy and fiercely independent and it’s an honour to be carrying the baton forward from Australia’s own Casey Donovan. I cannot wait to return to this brilliant score and join storytelling forces with this beautiful Australian company, leaving it all on that stage for you, Sydney.”

Settle played Angélique in the West End production of & JULIET.
Settle played Angélique in the West End production of & JULIET. (Supplied)

& JULIET: A Pop-Fueled Twist on a Classic Love Story

& JULIET isn’t your grandmother’s Shakespeare. This electrifying musical throws a giant pop music party onto the Bard’s classic tale, asking the provocative question: “What if Juliet didn’t die?”

The show follows Juliet on a journey of self-discovery and second chances, all fueled by a playlist of iconic pop anthems. Get ready to sing along to chart-toppers like “Baby One More Time,” “Roar,” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” as Juliet rewrites her destiny.

A Stellar Australian Cast Takes Center Stage

Settle joins a stellar cast that boasts some of Australia’s brightest theatrical talents. Lorinda May Merrypor takes centre stage as Juliet, bringing her captivating vocals and stage presence to the iconic role. Music industry legend Rob Mills steps into the role of Shakespeare himself, wielding his comedic timing and musical prowess. Rounding out the power trio is the ever-talented Amy Lehpamer, who takes on the role of Anne, Shakespeare’s wife.

Rob Mills leads the cast of & JULIET (Supplied- Credit Daniel Boud)
Rob Mills leads the cast of & JULIET (Supplied- Credit Daniel Boud)

More Than Just Pop Anthems: A Show with Heart

While the pop music infusion is a major draw, & JULIET offers more than just catchy tunes. The show’s heart lies in its exploration of themes like self-discovery, female empowerment, and the power of second chances.

The Sydney production of & JULIET is a testament to the power of international collaboration. Max Martin, the Swedish pop music legend behind hits for Britney Spears, Katy Perry, and The Weeknd, joins forces with David West Read, the Emmy and Golden Globe-winning writer behind Schitt’s Creek. This unlikely duo crafted the musical’s book and score, blending Shakespearean wit with pop music sensibilities.

Director Luke Sheppard, known for his acclaimed work on musicals like Spring Awakening and The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 ¾, brings his innovative vision to the show. Jennifer Weber, a rising star in the world of choreography, adds her signature dance moves – get ready for some killer choreography that perfectly complements the pop anthems.

A Global Phenomenon Takes Centre Stage in Sydney

Since its world premiere in 2019, & JULIET has become a global phenomenon, captivating audiences on four continents. The show has enjoyed successful runs in Manchester, London, Toronto, and most recently, Broadway. Now, Sydney has been experiencing the magic of & JULIET.

Tickets for the final Sydney shows are now on sale here.

Last Updated on May 1, 2024


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