‘& Juliet’ offers a fresh twist on Romeo & Juliet at Playhouse Square, featuring pop hits and Northeast Ohio talent.
CLEVELAND — We all know the story of “Romeo & Juliet” by William Shakespeare.
Imagine if the well-known tale of two lovers from feuding families took a different turn. This is the premise of “& Juliet,” which can be seen at the Connor Palace in Playhouse Square, Cleveland.
With a soundtrack featuring hit songs by pop icons such as Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and Katy Perry, “& Juliet” follows Shakespeare and his wife as they reimagine the story, giving Juliet a new chance at both life and love.
The touring show boasts a cast with strong connections to Northeast Ohio. Corey Mach, taking on the role of William Shakespeare, has roots in the region, having grown up in Strongsville, performed at the Cassidy Theater in Parma Heights, and graduated from Baldwin Wallace University.
“It’s surreal to be back here,” he told 3News. “This is my fifth show at Playhouse Square. Through the years, this has been kind of a home for me, and to be here doing this show, which is so iconic, so fun, a blast for the whole family, is just awesome.”
Nick Drake, who plays May in the production, is also a Baldwin Wallace graduate. They said coming to Cleveland is like coming home, and they have some favorite spots to visit while here, including Barrio and Happy Dog.
“I love Ohio City,” they said. “It feels like I never left, and it feels great to be back and be supported.”
“& Juliet” runs at Playhouse Square on Sunday, March 23.
Tickets are on sale at playhousesquare.org.
