One of the biggest musical theatre phenomena of the 21st century is finally landing in Aotearoa, and it’s bringing a tidal wave of pop anthems, girl-power energy and show-stopping talent with it. G&T Productions have officially unveiled the New Zealand cast for & JULIET, the global mega-hit that rewrites Shakespeare with a fierce, funny and joy-filled modern twist — and this lineup is pure fire.

After conquering the West End and Broadway with its explosive blend of iconic Max Martin hits and razor-sharp comedy, & JULIET is gearing up for its New Zealand takeover in April 2026. And with a cast this stacked, audiences are in for a next-level theatrical experience.

KIRSTIN PAULSE STEPS INTO HER POWER AS JULIET

Leading the charge is Kristin Paulse, one of Aotearoa’s brightest rising musical theatre stars. Fresh off electrifying turns in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical and RENT, Paulse will bring a bold, modern and deeply heartfelt Juliet to the stage. A powerhouse vocalist with undeniable stage magnetism, she’s set to redefine the girl at the heart of Shakespeare’s most famous tragedy — only this time, Juliet writes her own ending.

Paulse says she’s thrilled to return home to tackle the role:

“I am beyond excited to be stepping into the role of Juliet… It’s such an honour to come back home and perform alongside incredible Kiwi talent. I can’t wait to bring this story to life for audiences across Aotearoa.”

MATU NGAROPO RETURNS AS SHAKESPEARE — WITH ATTITUDE

Ready to shake up the Bard himself, Matu Ngaropo joins the production as Shakespeare. Known for standout roles in Hamilton, The Lion King (including the iconic reo Māori recording), and most recently Something Rotten at the Court Theatre, Ngaropo brings charisma, swagger and comic brilliance to the quill-wielding playwright determined to control Juliet’s story… until his wife steps in.

Joining him is Awhimai Fraser as Anne — a force of nature both onstage and in the recording booth. From voicing Matangi in Moana 2 to her reo Māori performances as Elsa (Frozen) and Dolores (Encanto), Fraser is set to bring depth, warmth and fierce humour to the role that flips Shakespeare’s entire script.

A STAR-STUDDED SUPPORTING CAST

The principal cast is rounded out by an extraordinary lineup of Kiwi talent:

• Lavina Williams (The Lion King, Hairspray) as the fabulous Angelique
• Andrew Grainger (Chicago) as lovable father figure Lance
• Andrew Papas (Madagascar The Musical) as the ever-dramatic Romeo
• Josh Johnson (Jersey Boys) as the earnest Francois
• Jared Pallesen (Something Rotten) as the free-spirited May

With this ensemble, the vocal power alone is worth the ticket.

Director Hamish Mouat promises a spectacular production:

“It’s a show that’s all heart, humour, full of pop hits and absolute joy. This cast is going to blow audiences away.”

A POP MUSICAL THAT REWRITES THE RULES

Set to a soundtrack (which has now been curated as a funky Spotify playlist) of undeniable bangers — Roar, Since U Been Gone, Baby One More Time, Can’t Stop the Feeling! and more — & JULIET is a celebration of empowerment, second chances and choosing your own destiny.

It’s vibrant, hilarious, emotional, wildly fun, and absolutely unmissable.

 

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Show dates are as follows:

• Auckland – The Civic: 9 April – 3 May
• Wellington – St James Theatre: 9 May – 24 May
• Christchurch – Isaac Theatre Royal: 30 May – 13 June

Tickets are on sale here.

Image: G&T Productions

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