#sydney REVIEW – &Juliet by PACA Productions at Riverside Theatres, Parramatta.
On the weekend, Miss and I headed to Riverside Theatres to check out @panacademies’ latest production. I really wanted to show this one to Miss to continue her drama journey and inspiration.
&Juliet is based on the three-time Olivier Award-winning and Broadway sensation of the same name.
If you’re not familiar with the story behind &Juliet, here’s the premise: What if Shakespeare’s Juliet didn’t end it all for Romeo? What if she got a second chance at life, love, and her own happily-ever-after?
Mix in hit songs by Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Celine Dion, The Backstreet Boys, and more, and you’ve got yourself an awesome musical experience.
The PACA production did a fantastic job with &Juliet. Having seen their previous production of Footloose the Musical recently, I was really impressed with this one too, especially the gorgeous costumes and stage sets.
Miss absolutely loved it. Even though the Michael Cassel Group’s production of &Juliet in 2024 has been her benchmark for all other musicals, she still really enjoyed this version and was in awe of Juliet, played by Jade Lee. Jade impressed her with her strong vocals, charisma, and quick costume changes!
She also loved Baxter Waller as Romeo, while Annette Vitetta brought lots of fun to Angelique. Daniel Timmins excelled as May, and Marika Zorlu (as Anne, William Shakespeare’s wife) was both funny and had an amazing voice to match. The ensemble delivered fantastic vocals and energy throughout.
We were so impressed with everyone on stage giving their all. Miss was truly inspired to see such talented young actors performing with so much passion. A bright future definitely awaits them!
&Juliet by PACA Productions is showing until 19 October.
Age recommendation: 10 years and over (contains adult themes, coarse language, and drinking).
Warnings: Contains smoke haze.
Duration: Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins (including interval).
Photos by @busycitykids
Production photos by Grant Leslie Photography
PACA Productions presents the premiere staging of Broadway hit
What If Juliet Lived?
Find Out in the Smash-Hit Musical Taking Over Parramatta
3 – 19 OCTOBER
Tickets on sale 12 August
What if Shakespeare’s Juliet didn’t end it all for Romeo? What if she got a second chance at life, love, and her own happily-ever-after?
From 3 to 19 October audiences in Parramatta can join Juliet as she rewrites her story, supported by an eccentric cast of characters including her friends, a lovestruck new flame, and even a reimagined Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway.
From the Emmy®–winning writer of Schitt’s Creek, this joyful, irreverent twist on Shakespeare’s classic which has won three Olivier Awards and become a Broadway sensation asks: what if Juliet didn’t die over Romeo, but chose a fresh start?
Bursting with heart, humour, and spectacular staging, & Juliet is powered by a playlist of pop anthems from Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Celine Dion, The Backstreet Boys, and more.
www.andjuliet.sydney - Insta: @panacademies - FB: @paca.sydney
Event Details:
Dates: 3 – 19 October 2025
Showtimes: Wed to Fri 7.30pm; Sat 1.30pm & 7.30pm; Sun 11am & 5.30pm (Sun 19 Oct 4pm)
Duration: Approx. 2 hrs 30 mins (with Interval)
Suitable for: Recommended for Ages 10+
Location: Riverside Theatres, Cnr Market & Church, Parramatta
Prices: from $71.50
Warning: Contains smoke haze