Coming To A City Near You: &Juliet

Ever wonder what would have happened if Juliet didn't end it all over Romeo? The hit musical &JULIET answers that question in a delightful way: she makes a fresh beginning and embraces life and love her way.

And unlike the old Shakespeare tale with lots of "thous" and "thees", Juliet's new story is told through a vibrant playlist of iconic pop anthems originally written and produced by Max Martin. Audiences can dance along to songs like "Since U Been Gone‚" "Roar," "Baby One More Time," "Larger Than Life‚" "That's The Way It Is," and "Can't Stop the Feeling!"

Currently on tour via Broadway Across America (BAA) ,the touring company stops in Austin, Texas this July via Texas Performing Arts . I had the opportunity to get some insights about the show from CRYSTAL KELLOGG who plays Anne Hathaway in the production.

1. &Juliet flips the ending of Romeo and Juliet. What do you think the show is has to say about choice and second chances?

   & Juliet is filled with finding the positive choice especially for yourself. Juliet, as well as the other characters, goes through a journey of self discovery and finding her confidence and voice. Then and only then can she make her choice is give second chances. She has to know herself first and foremost. That speaks to all of the other relationships too and the second chances given in those. They come from asking what do I need? What do I want? Being secure in those answers and not settling for less than that.

2. Can you tell me how the musical leans hard into female empowerment and self-determination?

   The show's message is truly about self worth, empowering and knowing yourself and how much your voice matters. When the characters find that throughout their respective journeys they really stand tall in their confidence and truth. I think this message is incredibly encouraging and inspiring and a great reminder of how "what I have to say matters."

3. How do you think Max Martin's pop catalog, songs written decades apart, for completely different artists, ends up telling one coherent story?

   Max Martin and our script writer, Schitt's Creek's David West Read very cleverly put the story together where it wasn't about putting in random songs from Max's long list but about what would fit the different moments and circumstances in our story. It's very smartly done and I encourage audience members to refrain from looking at the song list before the show. It makes the surprise of which songs come up very fun.

4. What's your favorite number in the show to perform?

   I think my favorite song to perform is Celine Dion's That's The Way It Is. I have loved Celine Dion forever so to be able to sing one of her iconic songs is always exciting.

5. &Juliet has an enthusiastic fan base that's often young and diverse. Do you have any stories about meeting fans or something you've seen them do? Has a fan interaction ever genuinely surprised or moved you?

   We have some great fans! (Also know as our Amperstans) I love when I see people dressed as different characters. It's so clear this show means so much to them that they went out of their way to recreate our costumes. It's also very fun meeting fans at the stage door and receiving handmade pictures and bracelets!

6. What are you hoping audiences take away from the show?

   I hope audiences leave with a big smile on their faces, that they feel renewed with joy and delight and silliness. I also hope they feel the warmth of love and acceptance our show brings. Love is love and it's beautiful!

Additional information on tour cities, venues, performance schedules and single ticket on sale dates are available at AndJuliettheMusical.com . Follow &JULIET on social media channels. Find tickets in Austin at TPA Presents.