Jack Antonoff Will Write Music For ‘Romeo And Juliet’ Broadway Play

This autumn, Broadway will welcome a reimagined version of Shakespeare’s timeless classic, ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ featuring music composed by Jack Antonoff.

Starring Rachel Zelger of ‘West Side Story’ fame and Kit Connor from ‘Heartstopper,’ this musical rendition of ‘Romeo and Juliet’ is directed by Sam Gold. Antonoff’s musical compositions promise to bring a fresh perspective to this beloved tale, while Sonya Tayeh takes charge of the movement direction.

Tickets for the eagerly anticipated show will be available for purchase in May.

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Describing the essence of the musical, the synopsis paints a picture of youthful passion and societal turmoil: “The youth are f*cked. Left to their own devices in their parents’ world of violent ends, an impulsive pair of star-crossed lovers hurtle towards their inescapable fate. The intoxicating high of passion quickly descends into a brutal chaos that can only end one way.”

Director Sam Gold expressed his vision for the production, highlighting its relevance in today’s world: “With the presidential election coming up in November, I felt like making a show this fall that celebrates youth and hope, and unleashes the anger young people feel about the world they are inheriting.”

However, the excitement surrounding the production has been marred by instances of online abuse directed at members of the cast. Actress Francesca Amewudah-Rivers, who is part of the West End performance of ‘Romeo & Juliet,’ faced a wave of “racist and misogynistic abuse” following her casting announcement.

In response, The Jamie Lloyd Company issued a strong statement condemning the abuse and asserting the right of artists to work without facing harassment. They emphasised a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and harassment, both online and within the industry.