Bass Hill-born and raised Casey Donovan is joining a stellar line-up of performers, including Rob Mills, who is flipping the script on Shakespeare in ‘& Juliet’ – an hilarious, new version of the beloved tale about self-discovery and second chances.
She says legendary songwriter Max Martin delivers one of the most stunning soundtracks to ever hit the stage, including hits from Britney Spears, Katy Perry, Ariana Grande, Pink and the Backstreet Boys, in this inspiring new musical that proves there’s life after Romeo.
We first met a 16-year-old Casey 20 years ago when she came into our lounge rooms performing in the second series of Australian Idol which she went on to win as the youngest ever in 2004.
The singer, songwriter, actress, theatre actress and author also won the third series of ‘I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here’ in 2017 in between writing and producing songs.
She has appeared in musicals ‘The Mamas & the Papas’, ‘Chicago’ and ‘9 to Five’ and in the third season of TV’s ‘How to Stay Married’ but says her role as nurse Angelique in the production of ‘& Juliet’ is among her favourites.
“I love that she is such a fun, witty character who only wants the best for Juliet, guiding her but with the attitude of ‘life happens’,” Casey said.
“Even though the message is all about girl empowerment, it is also very gender diverse and the feedback we’ve received is that males and females of all backgrounds are leaving the show feeling hopeful, uplifted and joyous.”
Performing Katy Perry’s ‘Teenage Dream’ among other songs, Casey said it sometimes felt like a karaoke party with the audience members singing out loud.
“The show has everything going for it, from confetti cannons and cast members flying through the air, to tight dance numbers, dazzling bright lights and colourful sets and costumes; it’s definitely a must-see for all ages,” the former Condell Park High and Bankstown TAP graduate added.
With tours already completed in Melbourne, Singapore and Perth, ‘& Juliet’ arrives in Sydney at the Lyric Theatre from February 27.
For tickets: ticketmaster.com.au or andjuliet.com.au.