Cadillac theater in Chicago!
Can never not pass up an opportunity to go see a musical in Chicago 😍🫶
Synopsis of “& Juliet”
“& Juliet” is a vibrant and imaginative jukebox musical that reimagines the classic tale of Romeo and Juliet. Instead of ending her story in tragedy, Juliet decides to chart a new course for her life after Romeo’s death. With the help of her friends and a little push from Shakespeare’s wife, Anne Hathaway, Juliet embarks on an empowering journey of self-discovery, love, and independence.
My opinion on the show:
As a 22-year-old, “& Juliet” feels like the perfect mix of nostalgia, empowerment, and pure fun. Growing up with so many of Max Martin’s songs—“Baby One More Time” and “Since U Been Gone” being absolute staples—it’s amazing to hear them reimagined in a story that’s all about rewriting your own destiny. I will say there was some songs I didn’t know 🫣
What I loved most is how the musical flips Juliet’s tragic story into something empowering. Instead of dying for a guy, she gets to live for herself, and honestly, that hit me in such a personal way. At 22, you’re constantly trying to figure out who you are and what you want out of life. Watching Juliet take control and redefine her narrative felt super relatable—like a reminder that it’s okay to rewrite
your story, even when things don’t go as planned.
The humor and modern vibes of the show kept it fresh and engaging, and Anne Hathaway’s character adding a feminist twist to Shakespeare’s work was such a vibe. I also appreciated how the musical subtly tackled themes of identity and self-worth without feeling preachy.
That said, there were moments where the plot felt a bit light or overly playful and a bit much, but honestly “& Juliet” is like a love letter to every girl who’s been told her story is already written.
⭐️ Rating: 7/10
Chicago's Cadillac Theatre is known for hosting incredible performances, and & Juliet is no exception. This musical, which creatively rewrites the tragic narrative of Romeo and Juliet, resonates especially with a younger audience facing their own battles with identity and direction. The vibrant production utilizes pop songs that many grew up with, enhancing the nostalgic experience while also delivering a powerful message about self-empowerment and rewriting one’s narrative. In recent years, audiences have shown a growing preference for musicals that not only entertain but also challenge traditional storytelling, making & Juliet a fitting reflection of contemporary societal values. By incorporating elements of humor and modern sensibilities, the show effectively engages its audience, inviting them to join Juliet on a path of discovery rather than despair. Critics have praised the clever integration of pop music, particularly highlighting tracks by Max Martin, which serve to enhance the emotional landscape of the story. As the experience unfolds in the backdrop of Chicago's lively arts scene, theatergoers are left with the feeling that they, too, can redefine their own stories, especially in their formative years. The light-hearted nature of the musical, paired with deeper themes of self-worth and identity, creates a unique atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on its viewers.