What do you get when you mix pop hits, ’80s and ’90s fashion, and an insanely talented cast? The Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre’s production of & Juliet, of course.
If you’ve been following along on my reviewing journey, you’ll know that I love a good jukebox musical, and & Juliet is by far one of my favourites. In fact, this is the third time I’ve seen the show in the last year.
This production, however, is unique in the way it was staged. Directed by Alister Smith with set design by Penny Challen, this version leans into the music’s era with a real rock-concert vibe. The use of graffiti-laden road cases to create the set is particularly clever.
Stage lights on wheels are used throughout certain scenes, contributing to an exposed aesthetic that almost resembles a rehearsal room. This doesn’t detract from the larger-scale concert moments, though, which quite literally blew the audience away.
As this production features double casting, it’s important to mention that I saw the Capulet cast.
First, let’s talk about the ensemble, which is made up of first, second and third year students from the course. The sound this group produce is stunning. Their blend and harmonies are clear and strong, almost overpowering the leads at times. There are plenty of moments throughout the show for them to step forward and showcase their individual talents as well.
In the title role, Alessia Charman is impressive. Charman’s vocal control is remarkable, particularly during the moments where you find yourself wondering how anyone can belt out these songs when your own voice gives up halfway through singing them in the car. Her vocal talent is equally matched by her dancing, and she leads many of the dance breaks alongside her girl group.
Opposite her as Romeo is Jackson Hughesman, who demonstrates the emotional journey Romeo goes on with both comedy and heart. Hughesman particularly shows off his vocal talent in the Act Two opener, Love Me Like You Do. He delivers a strong performance that allows the character’s more vulnerable side to shine through.
In the role of William Shakespeare is Saul Kavenagh. Having seen Kavenagh perform multiple times, I wasn’t surprised by the skill with which he portrayed the role. What did surprise me was the cheeky energy he brought to Shakespeare, offering a side to the character I hadn’t seen from him before.
Playing Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway, is Lily Bennetts, who is hilarious in the role. Her confident portrayal of Anne is perfectly matched by her comedic timing, both in her scenes with Shakespeare and when she quite literally writes herself into Juliet’s story.
Another notable character in the show is May, played by Sam Thomas. Written as Juliet’s best friend, May also goes on their own beautiful journey throughout the production. Thomas brings a sassy but grounded quality to the character. Their rendition of I’m Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman was one of those moments that stirred up some emotions in this reviewer.
Playing the role of Angelique is Addisyn Herndon, and her virile counterpart Lance is played by Lachlan Dunks. Both young performers are hilarious in their duet Teenage Dream, and it was a joy watching them onstage.
The costuming, also by Penny Challen alongside Gayle MacGregor, is another standout. The exposed ’80s neon bustles cleverly tie together both the era of the music and the Shakespearean setting, creating a visual style that feels playful without losing the connection to the original story.
Some ensemble members are also dressed in crew shirts, effectively becoming roadies who assist with scene changes. It is a smart way to incorporate the first and second year cohorts into the production while also adding to the rock-concert aesthetic.
Choreographer Dan Venz, as always, has done an excellent job. The dance numbers are tight, energetic and incredibly well executed, which is no small feat with a cast of this size. The choreography helps maintain the concert energy throughout the production and gives the ensemble plenty of opportunities to shine.
& Juliet is a testament to the talent and dedication of not only a passionate group of young performers, but also the educators who care deeply about the quality of work being produced by a leading training organisation such as the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre.
With a production this polished, energetic and ambitious, there is plenty for the audience to applaud. More importantly, it offers an exciting glimpse into the future of Australian musical theatre.
& Juliet runs to 8 August 2026. Presented by the Musical Theatre students at the Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre (QAEMT), Griffith University. Conservatorium Theatre, 140 Grey Street South Brisbane Qld 4101.
Tickets: https://www.queenslandconservatorium.com.au/juliet/
Website: https://www.griffith.edu.au/arts-education-law/queensland-academy-of-excellence-in-musical-theatre
Socials: Socials: https://www.instagram.com/qaemt.griffithuni/
Photo credits: Kenn Wylchi
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