In a Canberra first, Free-Rain Theatre Company is presenting the internationally celebrated musical & Juliet in 2026. The production boldly asks: What if Juliet’s story didn’t end with Romeo?
This fast-paced, high-energy show subverts the ending of Shakespeare’s greatest love story by bringing joy, agency and self-determination to centre stage. With a vibrant contemporary spirit, it reimagines a familiar tale in a fresh, uplifting and powerfully relevant way for modern audiences.
Refusing to be defined by loss or obligation, Juliet embarks on a journey of self-discovery that celebrates independence, resilience and friendship. Accompanied by a diverse and dynamic cast of characters, the story champions women writing their own futures and making their own choices. At its heart, & Juliet proves that life does not end after heartbreak - it begins again, full of possibility and hope.
Set to a soundtrack of songs by legendary songwriter Max Martin, including …Baby One More Time, I Kissed A Girl, Roar, and It’s My Life, Martin’s extraordinary catalogue transforms chart-topping pop hits into joyful celebrations of identity, self-acceptance and love. Familiar songs are woven seamlessly into the storytelling, creating a theatrical experience that is both nostalgic and exhilarating.
'& Juliet' is unashamedly fun, modern story-telling. High-energy, bright and vibrant' – FUSE Magazine
The musical features a sharp and witty book by Emmy Award–winning writer David West Read, best known for his work on the acclaimed television series Schitt’s Creek. His clever, irreverent script blends contemporary humour with Shakespearean storytelling, giving & Juliet its distinctive voice and playful theatrical style.
The story spans Elizabethan England to the present day. & Juliet playfully stages the relationship between Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway as they debate and reshape the ending of Romeo & Juliet. Through witty theatrical dialogue bridging 1597 and today, the show boldly challenges ideas of fate, love and storytelling.
Bursting with pop anthems from legendary songwriter Max Martin and a sharp, witty script by Schitt’s Creek writer David West Read, this vibrant production follows Juliet as she chooses life, independence and possibility after heartbreak. Energetic, uplifting and joyfully irreverent, & Juliet invites audiences to discover what happens when a classic story gets a powerful new ending. – FUSE Magazine
Running at The Q - Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre from 31 March to 26 April, Free-Rain Theatre Company’s production of & Juliet promises exhilarating performances and a fresh, contemporary theatre experience that will resonate with audiences of all ages.
Co-Director & Co-Choreographer: Charlotte Morphett and James Tolhurst-Close Musical Director: Callum Tolhurst-Close.
Performance Details
The Q – Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre
Tuesday 31 March to Sunday 26 April 2026
